Thunder Bay – COVID-19 Update – The mandated lockdown by Ontario has officials with the City of Thunder Bay preparing to shut down facilities.
Thunder Bay City Administration is preparing for temporary facility closures as of December 26, 2020 for 14 days.
“We need everyone to stay home to the extent possible, except for essential requirements to slow the spread of COVID-19 in Thunder Bay. Holiday gatherings and a potential surge are a concern across the Province. I implore everyone to gather only with your household and avoid travel unless absolutely essential. We must also remember our local businesses and restaurants – please shop local and get take-out to support our small business.”
In particular, the lockdown will close indoor and outdoor sports and recreational fitness activities from December 26, 2020 to January 9, 2021.
“Following the Premier’s announcement, we are reviewing the Provincial Orders in full and will provide more information as details are confirmed,” said Norm Gale, City Manager.
With recreation facilities closed, residents are encouraged to make use of outdoor City park amenities including rinks and trails with people you live with, and stay two metres away from people you do not live with.
At this point in time, Algoma and Grace Remus municipal Child Care Centres will remain open to accommodate preschool clients. Child Care management staff are seeking confirmation of access to space in Woodcrest and Ogden schools and will communicate with parents and families directly on status as soon as possible.
Closure of Recreation Facilities and Programs
The following facilities will close effective December 26, 2020 until January 9, 2021:
- Canada Games Complex, our largest recreational facility
- Churchill Pool (Volunteer Pool has remained closed under renovation during the pandemic)
- Arenas: Fort William Gardens, Neebing, Delaney, Port Arthur, Grandview, Current River
- Older Adult Centres: 55 Plus Centre and West Arthur. Take-out food service (curbside pick-up) will continue for seniors’ food security.
- Community Centres: West Thunder, Current River, North End, Oliver Road, North McIntyre, Jumbo Gardens, South Neebing, Vale, Vickers Heights, West Arthur (includes volunteer-board operated community centres)
- Kinsmen Youth Centre
- Baggage Building Arts Centre
- Water Garden Pavilion. Prince Arthur’s Landing rink will remain open.
City Council Meetings
The next regular City Council and Committee of the Whole meetings take place tonight and on Jan. 11. City Council continues to meet virtually. Residents can watch meetings online at www.thunderbay.ca/watchcouncil or live on Shaw Spotlight Channel 10 or Tbaytel Digital TV on Channel 110. City Hall including the gallery is not open to the public for in person attendance.
City Hall & Victoriaville Civic Centre
City Hall and Victoriaville Civic Centre remain closed with service available by advanced appointment booking.
Transit – Avoid Non-Essential Trips
Customers of Thunder Bay Transit and Lift+ Specialized Transit are asked to avoid all non-essential travel. Where travel is required masks should be worn. Enhanced cleaning and disinfection of buses remains in place with a focus on high touch areas such as buttons and handles. Please do not use public transit if you feel unwell or exhibit any symptoms.
