Quinte West residents will once again be able to enjoy the Batawa outdoor skating rinks, starting tomorrow.

The Quinte West Emergency Control Group has decided to allow the rinks to reopen for skating starting with increased safety measures in place. 

Quinte West Mayor Jim Harrison said the city is trying to make decisions that will keep everyone safe.

“In this case, we realized that keeping people healthy also means allowing access to opportunities for exercise and fresh air,” he stated. “While you’re out, please be respectful of others, including staff and volunteers who are working hard to keep these facilities open.”

The rinks will be open daily from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. weather permitting. A maximum of 20 people will be allowed on a rink surface at one time, masks must be worn at all times and people are asked to spread out and respect physical distancing.

Hockey sticks and pucks are allowed on rinks one and three, but no organized games or scrimmages are permitted at any time and people are asked to limit skating time to a maximum of two hours and to not move the benches or picnic tables.

Washrooms will be open but only one person at a time allowed in the washroom area (parents/guardians with children allowed) and volunteers and staff will be present at all times to monitor and clean facilities

Failure to follow protocol will result in removal from the ice surface, and if needed, OPP enforcement