May 13, 2020
The City of Edmonton is continuing to turn the dial toward the relaunch phase with the reopening of some City services and Edmonton businesses. All relaunch decisions are based on assessments of what is necessary, sustainable, affordable and in compliance with the province’s health and safety requirements.
“There is no flip of the switch in our relaunch plans,” said Interim City Manager Adam Laughlin. “Instead, we will make thoughtful and intentional decisions that balance the protocols that keep people safe with the activities that give businesses confidence that they can thrive.”
The following initiatives are moving forward:
Retail Patio Expansion
To help businesses accommodate more patrons and meet consumer demand for dining out and shopping, effective May 19th and until the end of the year, the City will relax rules around retail patio expansions. This will allow businesses to create safe outdoor spaces for dining and shopping this summer.
The City will work with Business Improvement Areas and member businesses to articulate what works best for their area. For businesses not in a Business Improvement Area, the City will promote this opportunity via social media channels, on the City’s website and with partners like the Chamber of Commerce.
“We are developing City guidelines to establish clear expectations and requirements for businesses,” said Laughlin. “We will provide on-going support to answer questions and help create the conditions for success.”
Reopening of Paisley, Alex Decoteau and Manning Village Off-Leash Dog Parks
As of Saturday, May 16, the Alex Decoteau, Manning Village and Paisley off-leash fenced dog parks are reopening for pets and their owners. Due to its smaller size, Alex Decoteau off-leash dog park will be restricted to a maximum occupancy of 15 people at all times. As a health and safety precaution the City is temporarily not offering dog bags in dispensers at the park, and users are requested to bring their own and pick up after their pets.
Edmontonians are reminded to continue to practice physical distancing when using off-leash areas and clean their hands after touching gates or latches, as these surfaces are not sanitized.
Renewal of the State of Local Emergency
The State of Local Emergency was renewed for another seven days, starting tomorrow. Having this mechanism in place ensures that the City continues to have the flexibility to manage the delivery of City services within public health requirements during the transition to relaunch. The State of Local Emergency was declared on March 20, 2020, and the Emergency Advisory Committee of Council has renewed it eight times since that date.
