Playgrounds and sports fields have reopened after closure due to COVID-19 in the City of Duncan, and the spray park in Centennial Park will be turned on in the coming days. (Citizen file)

Playgrounds and sports fields have reopened after closure due to COVID-19 in the City of Duncan, and the spray park in Centennial Park will be turned on in the coming days. (Citizen file)

City of Duncan reopens playgrounds, sports fields

"Signs have been posted advising the public that the equipment is not sanitized..."

Playgrounds, sports fields and other public exercise equipment is now open to the public again in the City of Duncan.

On June 3, 2020, following guidelines released by the BC Recreation and Parks Association and WorkSafe BC, the city has removed the yellow tape that barred people from using these facilities during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

City park trails, tennis courts, and public washrooms remained open throughout the COVID-19 response. The playground and outdoor exercise equipment at Centennial Park are now open for public use. The popular spray park will also be opening in the coming days.

“While physical distancing is still strongly recommended, there is no expectation or requirement that young children will be able to maintain proper physical distancing when using the playground or spray park,” the city said in a press release. “Signs have been posted advising the public that the equipment is not sanitized, and that frequent hand washing is advised.”

The sports field at MacAdam Park is now open for use by small groups; however, the Rotary Park sports field will remain closed for use until June 15, the city said, due to recent overseeding and topdressing.

“To protect everyone’s safety, if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have been exposed to the virus, please stay home,” the press release reiterated.

Questions about social distancing, and provincial and federal support, resources and assistance can be directed to the BC COVID-19 information hotline at 1-888-COVID19 or 1-888-268-4319.

The Cowichan Valley Regional District, other member municipalities including North Cowichan, and the Cowichan Valley School District No. 79 announced the reopening of their facilities last week.

Cowichan Valley Citizen