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The City of Welland is preparing to re-open the Rosie Smith Memorial Swimming Pool on July 10, 2020, followed by re-opening all three city splash pads on July 11. Swimming pools and splash pads comply with phase two of the Ontario government’s Framework to Re-opening the Province and must meet strict safety protocols to safeguard public health and lessen the spread of COVID-19.
The Rosie Smith Memorial Pool was scheduled to re-open on July 3, 2020; however, due to strict public safety measures and staffing requirements, the re-opening date is postponed one week.
Managing a public swimming pool under Provincial Emergency Orders requires additional time for staff to acquire new and updated COVID-19 safety measures concerning first aid and rescue situations. The Rosie Smith Memorial Pool was chosen over other public pools because it is an accessible facility for people with disabilities, and is central to many communities through Welland Transit’s #501 bus route. The Rosie Smith Memorial Pool is located in St. George Park, 391 St. George St., Welland.
The following procedures will be in effect with the re-opening of the Rosie Smith Memorial Swimming Pool:
- Public access is always free
- COVID-19 prevention measures will be in place
- Controlled access and screening
- Regular cleaning of hard surface areas
- Change room will remain closed
- Restrictions on the number of patrons will be enforced to allow for physical distancing
- Potential for a time limit to maximize public access
- Washroom will be open
- Request for members of the public to avoid bringing food, lawn chairs, and large items into the pool area (These items are allowed in the park adjacent to the pool)
- Daily operating hours anticipated from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Residents can also cool off this summer at the City of Welland splash pads. All three splash pads—located at Glenwood Park, Memorial Park, and Chippawa Park—will open July 11, 2020. Physical distancing guidelines will apply in the splash pad areas for the safety of everyone.
The following procedures will be in effect with the re-opening of city splash pads:
- Regular cleaning of hard surface areas
- Hand sanitizer will be provided
- Use of nearby benches and seating areas are prohibited
- Request for members of the public to avoid bringing food, lawn chairs, and large items into the splash pad area (These items are allowed in the park adjacent to the pool)
- On-site ambassadors will be at each location to ensure physical distancing is practiced
- Daily operating hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Splash Pads will be closed during inclement weather
For more information on the city’s public pools and splash pads, including hours of operation and public health guidelines, visit welland.ca.
