By Sheldon Spackman

not just yet

Planning continues for reopening of Ross Street Patio, museum and libraries

May 15, 2020 | 4:17 PM

Reopening dates are still being determined for some of Red Deer’s most notable attractions and amenities.

With the reopening of many restaurants in Red Deer now underway, many residents wondering about the return of the much-loved Ross Street Patio for example, may find out soon what to expect this season.

“The EOC (Emergency Operations Centre) has reviewed a number of potential options related to downtown patios, including the Ross Street Patio, and will have an announcement to the public next week on the details,” says Karen Mann, Emergency Operations Centre Director for the City of Red Deer.

Meanwhile, officials at the Red Deer Museum and Art Gallery (MAG) are continuing efforts on a re-launch strategy that will allow them to open safely, while respecting all requirements outlined by Alberta Health.

Mann says like any business or amenity listed in the Provincial Government’s re-launch strategy, each individual location must be able to meet a number of sector-specific guidelines in order to open.

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“While we are not aware of a specific date at this time, we do know that MAG is looking forward to opening their doors to the public soon, once they can do so safely,” adds Mann.

Museums and art galleries are among the many services across the province allowed to open when ready as of May 14.

Although physical distancing of at least two metres still applies to gatherings of 15 people or less, other services now able to open as well include retail businesses like clothing, furniture and book stores, all farmers’ market vendors, hairstyling and barber shops, and cafés, restaurants, pubs and bars for table service at 50 per cent capacity.

Some scheduled, non-urgent surgeries are now able to resume gradually, as can daycares and out-of-school care, with occupancy limits. Also day camps, including summer school, with occupancy limits, and post-secondary institutions with flexibility for in-person delivery once the existing public health order prohibiting in-person classes is lifted.

Finally, places of worship and funeral services can also reopen if they follow sector-specific guidance.

Those waiting to access any branch of the Red Deer Public Library however, will have to wait a little longer.

“Libraries need to ensure that they can meet all guidelines outlined by Alberta Health prior to re-opening in Phase Two,” explains Mann. “The Province is issuing sector-specific guidelines on a daily basis but at this time, there are no specific guidelines available related to libraries specifically. Generally, they will likely need to adhere to strict social distancing rules and gathering size restrictions, as well as be able to meet enhanced cleaning and personal protective equipment requirements.”

“Additionally, librairies located in other facilities, like schools and recreation centres, may have to consider other criteria due to the ongoing closure of those types of facilities,” she continues. “Again, the guidelines have not been issued by the province but we anticipate they will be forthcoming some time in Phase One.”

Elsewhere, Mann points out that asphalt pads in Red Deer neighbourhoods continue to open in phases, as rink boards come down and maintenance occurs.

“These locations are being opened for spontaneous, non-organized, non-contact sports at this time and physical distancing and gathering size restrictions continue to apply.”