News release
For immediate release
Esquimalt, BC—The Township of Esquimalt is taking another step towards opening up recreation services with both summer camps and the fitness centre ready to take registrations.
The fitness centre will open Tuesday, June 23 for limited hours as staff evaluate the new configuration and make any needed adjustments. After a short trial period, the fitness centre hours will expand as of June 29 to accommodate more guests. People interested in coming for a workout can sign up online through the Township’s recreation registration system or can contact the recreation desk directly. There will be no drop-ins to ensure an even distribution of people.
Visitors to the centre will be required to respect new safety protocols and adjust to some operating changes, like no shower access. All gym members will be given individual sanitizing kits and be booked in for 1.5 hour time slots. Staff will disinfect the stations between visitors.
“We’re excited to welcome our community back to the recreation centre, albeit under different conditions,” said Mayor Barbara Desjardins. “Our staff have worked really hard at balancing the needed safety protocols with the needs of our guests. We know it will look a little different for now and ask for everyone’s patience as we work out the kinks”.
Like with the fitness centre, summer camps have established new protocols to enhance safety, like designated drop-off and pick-up locations spread out to promote physical distancing between caregivers during peak times. A variety of themed camps, including opportunities for before and after camp care, begin June 29. The camps will run primarily outdoors and any out-trips will be in walking distance to avoid the need for a bus. Should the weather take a turn for the worse, staff are prepared with indoor activities for the campers.
The recreation safety protocols were created based on rules and guidelines from health officials and professional associations, including the Provincial Health Officer, Island Health, the BC Recreation and Parks Association and others.
Staff are in the process of evaluating field access for sports leagues as well as drop-in fitness classes with dates being finalized in the near future. The indoor aquatic facilities remain closed for the present time.
Information about program registration and safety protocols can be found at Esquimalt.ca/recreation.
Contact
Tara Zajac
Manager of Communications
250-414-7122
[email protected]