More open-air amenities will soon open in Coquitlam, with spray pads set for June 15 and outdoor pools scheduled to open June 27.
COQUITLAM, B.C., June 11, 2020 – More open-air amenities will soon open in Coquitlam, with spray pads set for June 15 and outdoor pools scheduled to open June 27.
The reopening is part of the City’s phased framework for the safe and gradual reinstatement of City facilities, in alignment with B.C.’s Restart Plan. Appointments at City Hall and other select sites will also be available as of June 15. Information can be found at www.coquitlam.ca/covid19.
Safety Measures to Protect the Public
Operation of the City’s nine spray pads and Eagle Ridge and Spani outdoor pools will meet all provincial and WorkSafeBC guidelines and public health protocols. Based on information from the BC Centre for Disease Control, there is no evidence COVID-19 can be spread to people through the water in pools, hot tubs, spas or water play areas.
Restrictions for spray pads will be similar to those for playgrounds, with users required to follow COVID-19 health measures and parents expected to closely supervise their children. Posted signs will advise:
- Sick children must not enter the playground or spray pad;
- Parents and guardians should maintain a two-metre distance from each other;
- Children should clean their hands before and after using the equipment;
- Users should avoid overcrowding; and
- The equipment is not being cleaned or disinfected.
Use of outdoor pools will be by pre-registration only to limit capacity and ensure physical distancing, with enhanced cleaning and other measures to protect the safety of staff and the public.
New Procedures for Outdoor Pools
Procedures to book outdoor pool sessions starting June 26 will be as follows:
- Eagle Ridge and Spani outdoor pools will both initially be open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with designated times for lap and leisure swimming. Local swim clubs will be accommodated after hours.
- Thirty-minute lap or leisure swimming sessions can be booked within 24 hours of the desired timeslot at www.coquitlam.ca/registration. Lap swimmers can book a single lane, while family groups of two to six people can book a double lane.
- Admission is a flat fee of $2 per person, paid online during the booking process.
- Changerooms will be closed; users will be expected to wear their swimsuits to and from the pool and place their belongings on a chair provided at the end of their lane.
- Swimmers will be asked to arrive five to 10 minutes before their scheduled time, confirm their registration, rinse off in the on-deck shower and then enter the pool.
- Masks will not be required because of the ability to physically distance.
- There will be no shared equipment for use at this time.
- All touchpoints, such as shower handles and bathroom doorknobs, will be thoroughly cleaned between sessions.
- Users will be asked to leave promptly after their session to allow time for cleaning before the next group.
- Dive boards will not initially be open.
Hours and procedures may be adjusted over time as users and staff become accustomed to the new measures.
Updates, including details on the appointment-booking system and swimming registration, will be posted in the coming weeks on the City’s social media channels and at www.coquitlam.ca/covid19.
Coquitlam Gradual Reopening Framework
The opening of spray pads and outdoor pools marks the start of Stage 2 of the City’s reopening framework. Stage 2 also includes the partial and modified reopening of selected facilities on an appointment basis, including City Hall, the Service Centre, the Animal Shelter, Archives and Community Police Stations.
Expanded outdoor activities during Stage 2 will include drop-offs at the Town Centre Recycling Depot, and registered outdoor recreation, fitness classes and children’s camps.
Stage 3 would see indoor recreation facilities open for limited registered activities and most non-recreation facilities open for limited hours, while Stage 4 calls for the full resumption of services. The timing of both of these stages will rely on direction from the Provincial Health Officer and B.C.’s Restart Plan.
Supporting Our Community During the Pandemic
The City of Coquitlam is here to help, with these resources:
- Visit www.coquitlam.ca/csrp to learn about the City’s Community Support and Recovery Plan, which is providing immediate and long-term support for the non-profit sector, businesses and residents;
- Visit www.coquitlam.ca/spirit for a free library of activities for all ages, including fitness, arts and culture, outdoor activities and ways to connect with your community; and
- Visit www.coquitlam.ca/covid19 for updates on City services and initiatives and COVID-19 health resources.
Coquitlam residents and businesses are also encouraged to follow the City of Coquitlam on social media (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) and download the CoquitlamConnect mobile app for up-to-date City information.