UPDATE: Province reverses decision on splash pads

Update May 21, 3:01 p.m. – The Provincial government has reversed its decision on splash pads and now all Ottawa-area splash pads including Carp are now permitted to open.

In a statement Friday (May 21) afternoon, the premier’s office confirmed splash pads will be allowed to open on Saturday (May 22), like other outdoor recreational amenities.

“Recognizing that splash/spray pads, like other outdoor recreational amenities, can be safely enjoyed, we have amended the regulation to align splash pads/spray pads with other outdoor recreational amenities,” the statement reads.

CARP – It’s going to be a hot one today (May 21), but due to provincial COVID-19 policy, Carp’s splash pad will remain closed for the foreseeable future.

“After (yesterday’s) provincial announcement of its three-phase reopening plan, the city will open its 127 splash pads as soon as it is permitted under phase one of the plan, which is anticipated to begin on Monday, June 14,” city staff released in a statement yesterday (May 20). “As a result, splash pads will not be opening as previously hoped this weekend.”

 Ward 5 Coun. Eli El-Chantiry even brought up the issue in yesterday’s (May 20) Huntley Community Association annual general meeting.

“I’m disappointed its closed too,” he said. “We’re working with the premier and the mayor to get them open.”

“We understand and share your disappointment, especially with summer-like temperatures,” city staff said. “But stay tuned for future communications around on the opening of splash pads and other closed outdoor amenities, including beaches, in the coming days and weeks, as sights are set for brighter days ahead this summer.”