(Town of Blackfalds)

By rdnewsNOW staff

Added Restrictions

Town of Blackfalds closes playgrounds, skateboard and bike skills park

Apr 21, 2020 | 2:40 PM

All playgrounds, skateboard parks, and the bike skills park in Blackfalds are now closed.

Town officials say the difficult decision was made by Blackfalds Town Council during a Standing Committee of Council meeting on Monday and is due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

With warmer temperatures, officials note there has been an increased presence in these spaces and although families and community members are encouraged to get outside, stay active and enjoy the sunshine, it has been observed that not everyone is keeping with the guidelines and regulations set out by the provincial government.

“Over the weekend, Town Council received complaints from citizens who were concerned that the Town’s request for voluntary social distancing by citizens using structures at our playgrounds were not working,” says Mayor Richard Poole, in a release. “This was not unexpected given the warmer weather. Last night, the Emergency Services Advisory Committee, in consultation with Town Council, decided that stronger actions needed to be applied.”

“This was not an easy decision but one that we felt will protect our citizens in a more comprehensive manner, while still allowing the opportunity to utilize our many green spaces and trails using social distancing guidelines,” adds Poole.

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“If you have concerns please contact council or CAO Myron Thompson,” continues Poole. “We also ask that you please talk about these increased restrictions with your family members and remind them that when they see our dedicated town staff enforcing these guidelines, they should take a moment to thank them for their continued service to our community during an increasingly difficulty time.”

Emergency Management and Protective Services Manager Ken Morrison explains that the Town hoped for the best when deciding to keep the playgrounds open.

“Unfortunately, not everyone is abiding by the government’s standards to prevent the spread of COVID-19,” says Morrison. “It was not an easy decision to make, but we have to make sure that the Town does its part in keeping our community safe.”

Officials say playgrounds will be patrolled regularly by municipal enforcement and staff have already started fencing and taping.

Residents are advised that this does not apply to public green spaces or trails which includes the Blackfalds Bark Park or the Community Gardens.

See blackfalds.com/tourism-recreation/parks-sports-fields for a full list of closures.