City to reopen playgrounds June 1
28 May 2020
The City of Richmond is reopening its playgrounds on Monday, June 1 as part of its plan to restore amenities and services closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Close to 60 City-owned playgrounds will again be open for climbing, sliding, swinging and exploring. However, users will be expected to wash their hands before and after use, stay home if sick and not gather in large groups in or around the playgrounds.
Among the locations to reopen are the award-winning Terra Nova Adventure Playground and the Garden City Play Environment. The playground at the popular Flight Path Park on Russ Baker Way will also have its barriers removed by the Vancouver Airport Authority on the same day while Richmond School District 38 is opening its school playgrounds on June 1, along with most other Lower Mainland municipalities.
Council approved the reopening of most outdoor park amenities commencing Wednesday, May 20 as part of a long-term program and services restoration plan. The plan is a step-by-step approach to restoring various City services, amenities and facilities while maintaining physical distancing and public health guidelines.
It began with the reopening of Step One amenities such as bike and skate parks, outdoor basketball and volleyball courts, lacrosse boxes and tennis courts – all with limited use guidelines in place and no organized games permitted.
While restoring access to playgrounds was identified as a Step Two action in the Restoring Richmond Plan, they are being reopened now in coordination with the Richmond School District to encourage play, physical activity, motor skill development and social interaction among children. Outdoor play has many benefits for children including improving balance, strength, coordination and confidence. No timeline has been set for other elements in Step Two as of yet.
Information on the timing of steps to reopen various services and amenities, as well as updates on further access, will be posted on the City’s website at www.richmond.ca/COVID19 as well as through its social media channels.