December 31, 2021
The Government of Alberta announced an update recently to the Restrictions Exemption Program (REP). All facilities operating under the REP, with a fire code capacity over 500, must operate at a maximum of 50 per cent of the fire code capacity. This includes all City of Edmonton operated recreation centres, arenas and attractions.
With the rapid spread of the Omicron COVID-19 variant, the City is implementing the following measures, which affect the consumption of food and beverages, effective immediately. These measures will ensure the continued safety of all visitors to City facilities while providing access to activities that support health and wellness.
- Eating and drinking is not permitted in any recreation centre, arena or attraction that does not have an on-site food service provider.
- In facilities with a food service provider, food and beverages can be consumed only in established areas. These facilities include:
- Terwillegar, The Meadows, Commonwealth and Millwood recreation centres, the Muttart Conservatory, the Edmonton Valley Zoo, City-operated seniors centres and Culina on the Lake in William Hawrelak Park.
- Those involved in physical activity within a facility may consume water/sport drinks for the purposes of staying hydrated.
In an effort to help protect Edmontonians from COVID-19, do not gather in common areas within and outside City facilities.
- When activities have been completed, exit promptly.
- Do not congregate in lobby areas or in the bleachers of arenas when waiting for participants before and after activities.
Program capacities will be adjusted as required to ensure they are appropriate for the space or be moved to a space that can accommodate them. Group fitness programs will require a three metre distance between participants.
These efforts are being put in place to help facilities remain open. Everyone’s cooperation is greatly appreciated so that the City can continue to operate facilities safely.
For those planning to use outdoor rinks this weekend, COVID-19 measures remain in place. Physical distancing must be maintained between households, or two close contacts for those living alone, while on the ice. For rinks with indoor pavilions and washrooms, face coverings are required and capacity is limited.
Service impacts due to COVID-19
The highly transmissible Omicron variant of COVID-19 continues to spread through Alberta. The City of Edmonton continues to work through our business contingency plans in the event more cases of COVID-19 require the isolation of City employees.
Critical service areas such as emergency services, snow and ice control, transit, recreation centres and waste services will be prioritized to operate. Should adjustments to resident-facing services be required, the City will inform Edmontonians as soon as possible.
