All playgrounds within City of Burnaby parks are closed effective immediately, according to a city news release.
“Our parks and trails remain open, however the washrooms are closed. A reminder to social distance when visiting these locations by keeping 2 metres between yourself and others.”
The City of Burnaby has also closed all city-owned facilities, including community centres, arenas, libraries, arts and cultural facilities, golf courses and restaurants, as the COVID-19 strain of the coronavirus continues to spread.
The directive comes at a time when federal and provincial officials insist on the need for people to stay home if they can. B.C. Health Minister Adrian Dix also pushed for employers to allow employees to work from home when they are able to.
Mayor Mike Hurley said in a brief interview the city is working as the “world is changing before our eyes.” He said the city's emergency operations centre has been working throughout the weekend, and council met Monday morning to make some decisions on the matter.
“We understand this will have a significant impact on residents,” Hurley said in a news release.
“But this is an extraordinary time, and it’s important that we all do what’s necessary to contain the spread of coronavirus. Public health officials advise that the window of opportunity to flatten the curve in the spread of this virus is very narrow, and we must do all we can.”
The city said refunds will be given to anyone who registered for programs at now-closed facilities.
“This is a challenging time for all of us,” Hurley said. “It’s important that we stay active. I encourage everyone to get out and enjoy our city’s abundant open spaces, parks and natural areas.”
- With additional reporting by Dustin Godfrey
