Town re-opening one ice pad at Pyramid Recreation Centre on October 1

Other parts of the building to re-open in weeks ahead

For more than six months, the Pyramid Recreation Centre has been closed to the public due to concerns about COVID-19. On Thursday, October 1, 2020, skaters will finally be welcomed back to one of the building’s ice pads.

There will be a number of new rules in place to ensure the PRC meets all local and provincial COVID-19 guidelines. Due to current capacity limits, only those registered in a program/league will be allowed in the facility. In addition, only one caregiver/spectator per child will be allowed into the building. Anyone not registered in a program/league that would like to visit the PRC should make an appointment in advance by calling 519-284-2160.

Patrons will need to use Entrance B to access the building, then follow all directional signage once inside. Masks must be worn by everyone using the common areas of the facility, but do not have to be worn on the ice. Players are encouraged to come fully dressed; there will be space in the change rooms and a staging area for tying skates. Showers will not be available.

Most prime time ice has already been offered to minor sports leagues. Those interested in booking any remaining ice time are encouraged to contact the PRC at 519-284-2160. There will no shoulder or ticket ice available at this time.

“We look forward to welcoming ice users back to the PRC,” said Mayor Al Strathdee. “We are urging users to practice patience and follow all of the new guidelines to ensure the facility is a safe place for all.”

“We’re counting on the community to be respectful of the rules,” he continued. “If things goes smoothly and demand remains high, Council will consider adding the second ice pad in November.”

Other parts of the PRC will open over the next several weeks. The Friendship Centre will be offering pre-registered indoor programming starting September 30, but the building will remain closed for drop-in visits. The Aquatics Centre will open on November 2. Additional details about the re-opening plans are available at www.townofstmarys.com/covid19.

Reminders for visitors

Enhanced cleaning practices and COVID-19 protocols have been put in place at all municipal facilities to protect the health and safety of staff and patrons. Those planning a visit to any Town facility are reminded to:

• Reconsider their visit if they are feeling sick or experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19
• Practice physical distancing by leaving 2 m/6 ft. of space between themselves and others 
• Wash their hands before and after their visit, and use hand sanitizer during their visit
• Wear a mask or face covering when inside the facility, as directed by Huron Perth Public Health

Updates and information

Updates about the Town’s re-opening plans and COVID-19 response will be posted to the Town website (townofstmarys.com/covid19), Facebook page (facebook.com/stmarysontario) and Twitter account (twitter.com/townofstmarys), and will be shared in our weekly column in the St. Marys Independent Newspaper. Questions about the Town’s re-opening plans can be directed to communications@town.stmarys.on.ca or 519-284-2340.

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Contact

Stephanie Ische | Director of Community Services
519-284-2340, ext. 624 | sische@town.stmarys.on.ca