Ontario government to allow splash pads to open in Ottawa after all
Posted May 21, 2021 06:27:00 PM.
It appears the Ford government is changing its mind about closing splash pads in Ottawa ahead of the Victoria Day long weekend.
Recognizing that splash/spray pads, like other outdoor recreational amenities, can be safely enjoyed, we have amended the regulation to align splash pads/spray pads with other outdoor recreational amenities.
Splash/spray pads will be allowed to open 12:01 a.m. on May 22nd.— Lisa MacLeod (@MacLeodLisa) May 21, 2021
On Wednesday, May 19, Ottawa Medical Officer of Health Dr. Vera Etches was asked whether splash pads should be open. At that time it was clear they would be allowed in the City of Ottawa, but she wanted to make sure residents paid extra attention to physical distancing measures while at local parks.
“We know splash pads are an important support for families when it gets hot, so I'm happy to see them open,” said Dr. Etches.
However, as part of the province's three-stage gradual reopening announcement on Thursday, it said splash pads would be closed across Ontario.
That decision did not sit well with Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson and other local elected officials.
“[Premier Ford] please reconsider your decision to not allow splash-pads to open at the same time as other outdoor activities like golf and basketball,” the mayor tweeted Thursday evening. “It’s going to be over 30 degrees this long weekend.”
As of Friday afternoon, Nepean MPP and provincial government minister Lisa MacLeod had this to say about a potential reopening decision:
“We spoke with health officials, right now it's with the experts, [but] I feel very confident that my neighbours will be happy this weekend.”
MacLeod and a number of Ottawa city councillors eventually confirmed that local splash pads will open.
All splash pads in #Ottawa should be operating by end of day today. Also this is National Public Works Appreciation Week. A huge shoutout to frontline #ottcity staff who continue to deliver for residents during the pandemic. Thank you! #ottnews https://t.co/aYVJSO3AtU
— Shawn Menard (@ShawnMenard1) May 21, 2021
GOOD NEWS FOLKS!!!!!!!
We all know how important splash pads are to helping our young ones beat the heat on those hot and humid days of summer. The provincial government heard our message, reviewed their decision, and I’m happy to say that splash pads will remain OPEN! pic.twitter.com/AGQ46K852V— Tim Tierney (@TimTierney) May 21, 2021
I am thrilled with the news that splash pads will be allowed to stay open! All of ours were turned on earlier and being enjoyed as we speak. (Thanks to the City for getting the drain issue fixed at Hintonburg.) pic.twitter.com/eoxNmW5Z3i
— Jeff Leiper (@JLeiper) May 21, 2021
