In just a few more days, residents can once again hit the ice at local arenas, study at the library, take part in recreation classes, spend time with small groups of people indoors and much more.
“We are all eager and excited to go back to our regular routines and being able to support local businesses,” says Stouffville Mayor Iain Lovatt. “Thank you to our residents, businesses and the community for their efforts in slowing the spread of COVID-19 by doing their part in getting vaccinated and following all health regulations as outlined by the Province.”
In keeping with provincial government plans to gradually ease COVID-19 public health measures, the Town will reopen recreation, cultural and administrative facilities to a maximum of 50 per cent capacity beginning Monday, Jan. 31. Enhanced proof of vaccination and other requirements remain in place.
Most facilities will reopen January 31, including the Leisure Centre. Indoor group fitness classes, such as Cyclefit and Aquafit, public swimming, fitness training room and gymnasium drop-in programs will all be available, with COVID-19 screening required. All registered programs scheduled for the current season will resume and run through March 13. Patrons who were already registered in a program will maintain their spot and receive credit for any missed classes or shortened schedules. Visit townofws.ca/active to learn more.
Stouffville Clippers Sports Complex and the Stouffville Arena will also reopen. Indoor public skate and free skate time will be suspended temporarily to help hockey associations make up for missed weeks of their season. You can continue to use the Town’s eight outdoor rinks for public skating. Family Stick & Puck and Shinny hockey will be available indoors.
Cultural and community centres, including the Whitchurch-Stouffville Museum & Community Centre, the Lebovic Centre for the Performing Arts – 19 on the Park will also reopen. For more information, visit the facility’s respective page on townofws.ca. Study rooms and tables at the Whitchurch-Stouffville Public Library will return to a capacity of two people. Ballantrae Community Centre, 6240 Main Street/55+ Club, Lemonville Community Centre and SoccerCity will also reopen on January 31, as will municipal offices at 111 Sandiford Dr. in Stouffville. The Latcham Art Centre reopens on Tuesday, Feb 1.
Under new provincial guidelines, social gatherings will be limited to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors. Capacity limits in indoor public settings will be increased or maintained at 50 per cent. Spectator areas of facilities such as sporting events, concert venues and theatres can operate at 50 per cent seated capacity or 500 people, whichever is less. For more information on general safety measures, visit stouffvillereopens.ca/current-situation.
Photo courtesy of the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville.
