NEWS RELEASE
TOWN OF INNISFIL
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As the May long weekend approaches, the Town of Innisfil is taking measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19 as temperatures rise and people spend more time outdoors. Starting May 21, parking at Innisfil Beach Park will be reserved for residents only.
“To help reduce crowds and out-of-area travel, we’re imposing measures that will keep our community safe while the province’s vaccination program reaches more people,” said Mayor Lynn Dollin. “Our residents did such a great job following the COVID-19 measures and guidelines at our beaches last summer and we are counting on our citizens to show that same level of support and co-operation again.”
A staff-controlled parking gate will be installed at the entrance of Innisfil Beach Park to safely regulate access to the park and boat launch on weekends until June 27, at which time it will be controlled seven days a week until Sept. 6.
Resident parking passes from 2020 will continue to be valid until 2022. Residents can book a curbside appointment at the Innisfil ideaLAB & Library to pick up their pass at www.innisfil.ca/resident-parking-pass.
To promote physical distancing and address overcrowding, other measures residents can expect to see at Innisfil Beach Park include:
- Keeping “Beaches in Motion”, meaning only active play on the sand area (e.g. no sunbathing or setting up chairs on the sand).
- Prohibiting barbecues or any other similar equipment for outdoor cooking.
- Allowing dogs at all times, including weekends and statutory holidays. Dogs must be leashed and are not permitted on designated beach areas, sports fields or within 15 metres of the water’s edge.
- Painting physical distancing circles on grass areas.
- Posting maximum occupancy limits within pavilions and on the pier.
- Additional By-law Officers at peak times on weekends.
The boat launch in Gilford (1090 Shore Acres Drive) will be open, with free resident parking and paid non-resident parking at the Shore Acres (Neilly Road) Lot. Staff will control access at this launch weekends only starting May 21 to June 27, then seven days a week until Sept. 6.
Similarly, the following parking lots will be limited to residents-only:
- 9th Line Road End
- 10th Line Park
- 12th/Mapleview Line Park and Lot
- 30th Sideroad North Road End and Dock
- Guest Road Lot
- Belle Ewart Park
All plans are contingent on provincial orders. Be sure to check posted signage or www.innisfil.ca/covid19 before visiting for the latest information.
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