Vernon committee to look at closing all local green spaces

Following the province's move to close all provincial parks, North Okanagan officials will decide if they will follow suit for local parks.

In the ongoing effort to stop the spread of COVID-19, the province closed all parks to the public effective immediately.

Greater Vernon Advisory Committee chairperson Akbal Mund said the matter of closing local green spaces will be discussed at this evening's GVAC meeting.

While he can not say for sure, Mund suspects parks like Paddlewheel, the Okanagan Rail Trail and other green spaces will be closed to the public for at least two weeks in an effort to encourage social distancing and stop the spread the coronavirus.

Mund said regional officials follow provincial guidelines and the closures will help with social distancing.

“The next two weeks are very critical for this pandemic,” said Mund, adding BC has been doing a “good job” in its efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19, and continued actions will go even further in slowing the spread.

Another facility Mund wants to look at is the Greater Vernon Athletic Park at Okanagan College which is still open.

“I saw 20 there the other day,” said Mund. “I'm all for closing it right now.”

Mund said he would “hate to see it (COVID) explode in our area” and closing parks for two weeks is better than having to close them for “four months” should coronavirus cases in the area increase.

Mund said people are still encouraged to go for walks in their neighbourhoods and enjoy the Okanagan spring air, while continuing social distancing.

On March 23, the District of Coldstream closed all of its parks, beaches and public spaces.