COVID-19 update: Strathcona County begins to ease restrictions, aligning with provincial strategy

Residents urged: continue to follow public health direction

Strathcona County is preparing and reviewing its COVID-19 response and relaunch plan, to align with the new Government of Alberta relaunch strategy. The health and safety of our community, including County staff, remains the top priority.

The County’s Emergency Operations Centre will present early relaunch advice to the Emergency Advisory Committee on Tuesday, May 5. The relaunch will mirror the timelines, phases and conditions directed by the Government of Alberta.

“We know many are looking forward to easing restrictions, and getting back to our most loved outdoor amenities,” says Mayor Rod Frank. “We also remind our citizens about the importance of maintaining the restrictions put in place by Alberta Health Services when heading back to these recreation spaces.”

Following yesterday’s provincial announcement, County staff assessed and planned for feasible changes, where easing restrictions could be implemented in alignment with the province’s early actions.

Most immediately, the County is determining what activities and outdoor facilities can open, aligning with the provincial relaunch plan. Pending weather and unforeseen circumstances, Strathcona County will open the following recreational spaces:

Saturday, May 2 - open

• Dog off-leash areas
  • Sally Stewart and Ardrossan – dog off leash parks
  • McGhan, Kinsmen/Westboro and Brentwood outdoor rinks – seasonal off leash areas
• Sherwood Park Natural area. Washroom will remain closed.

Monday, May 4 at 12 noon - open

• Deermound off-leash area. Washrooms will remain closed.

Wednesday, May 6 - open

• Broadmoor Public Golf Course, 18 holes. The Clubhouse, Pro Shop and driving range remain closed until phase 1 reopening on May 14. Visit thebroadmoor.ca for information on tee times.
• Strathcona Wilderness Centre, trails only, will be open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Picnic areas, campsites and Lodge remain closed. Information Centre #2 washroom will be open.

Continue to follow public health direction

Residents must continue to follow the infection prevention and control measures:

• Gatherings must be limited to no more than 15 attendees
• Practice hand hygiene
• Practice physical distancing (two metres apart)
• If you cannot maintain physical distancing, wear a non-medical mask
• Avoid touching commonly touched surfaces such as handrails
• Stay home if you are sick or displaying any symptoms of COVID-19

Your efforts will have an impact on Strathcona County’s ability to safely carry out our relaunch strategy.

Strathcona County continues to deliver its critical services. Strathcona County also remains resourced and prepared to respond to seasonal events, such as wildfires.

Strathcona County’s Emergency Management Agency continues to action contingency planning and response to COVID-19.

Set in the centre of Alberta’s energy and agricultural heartland, Strathcona County is a thriving, successful and vibrant community of over 98,000 residents. Strathcona County is made up of the urban area of Sherwood Park and a large adjacent rural area of farms, acreages and smaller hamlets. It is home to 75 per cent of hydrocarbon processing in Western Canada. Strathcona County is a leader in environmental conservation, and 55 per cent of its land is within the UNESCO Beaver Hills Biosphere. With a focus on economic, governance, social, cultural and environmental sustainability, Strathcona County is committed to balancing the unique needs of its diverse community. 

 
-30-
 

Contact: Strathcona County Communications 780-410-6595