This story was updated on April 9, 2021, at 6 p.m.
Following the province-wide stay-at-home restriction, the City of Kingston decided to close Breakwater Park on April 9 to prevent crowding.
After an outbreak in the University District yesterday, KFL&A Public Health issued an emergency order to close down the park for a 10-day period. This order is effective starting April 9 at 4 p.m.
“This timeline coincides with students move-out but can be extended if needed. As one of our most popular community parks, closing it is a last resort,” Mayor Bryan Paterson said in a statement.
The provincial order currently allows outdoor gathering of up to five people. However, due to the current outbreak near the University District and overcrowding at Breakwater Park earlier in the week, Paterson said the park is being fenced off as enforcement.
According to statements sent out by the City, fences are assembled to close the north, east, and west boundaries of Breakwater Park. These boundaries run along King Street between Lower University Avenue and Beverley street.
The area will also be closely monitored by City Bylaw Enforcement and Kingston Police.
Under the istrative Monetary Penalties (AMPs), individuals who fail to maintain physical distancing in any City park will be subjected to a $2,060 penalty notice.
“We look forward to reopening this waterfront park as soon as it’s safe to do so.” said Paterson.
Shortly after the closure, the AMS released a statement.
“The AMS was extremely disappointed to hear about the immediate closure of Breakwater Park. With this being said, we also believe crowding at the pier, and not maintaining safe distances between households is unacceptable and intolerable. These actions are unproductive in the efforts to get back to a new normal and fight against COVID-19.”
The AMS said it has ed the University istration and the City of Kingston to discuss creating “safe, accessible, and monitored spaces for students to be able to be outside.”
“While we urge students to stay home where they can, we acknowledge that outdoor spaces must be accessible. As the last week of classes comes to an end and exams begin, it is important to consider the stressful next few weeks our peers will encounter. Students will need the ability to safely access outdoor spaces to take breaks, and for their mental health.”
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