Memorial Drive will be closed for the May long weekend.
City officials say the road will be closed from Regina Street to the marina starting Friday at 9:00 a.m., until Tuesday at 9:00 a.m. The reason for the closure is to allow those who will be out enjoying the sun by walking or cycling, the proper distance to maintain physical distancing.
“We know people are anxious to get out and enjoy the warmer weather now that spring has arrived, but now’s not the time to let up,” said Mayor Al McDonald. “We need to keep up our physical distancing. This doesn’t mean you can’t go outside. Just remember to keep at least six feet from those around you. We put our trust in our citizens to follow the COVID-19 protocols.”
City officials add that they are monitoring the use of Memorial Drive as an active transportation route, and will re-evaluate following the long weekend to determine if the designation will be extended.
“The City of North Bay has created an environment to help encourage residents utilizing the waterfront for walking or biking to continue to physically distance,” said Dr. Jim Chirico, Medical Officer of Health. “We thank you for continuing to follow public health guidelines including physical distancing, washing or sanitizing your hands often, covering your coughs and sneezes, wearing a facial covering when physical distancing is hard or not possible to maintain and staying home as much as possible.”
Parks and green spaces are also open for running, walking, or riding bikes. However, playgrounds, and other structures, as well as sports fields and the dog park remain closed under the provincial emergency order. The waterfront marina remains closed as well for the time being. The status of municipal boat launches, which are also closed at this time, will be reviewed tomorrow following the next briefing from the province on additional reopening’s in Ontario.
