Ajax Council is encouraging residents to enjoy the outdoors safely with the launch of our Winter TOA program.
Throughout the pandemic, the council said the town has promoted the benefits of safe outdoor activities to support the physical and mental health of the community via the popular Active TOA program. To help residents stay active this winter, the town is highlighting various outdoor activities, spaces and amenities, said a statement.
Winter TOA provides safe opportunities for residents to get outside to exercise, including:
- Skating at Pat Bayly Square (pre-registration required, free admission)
- Exploring 150 km of maintained trails & sidewalks, including the popular 7 km William A. Parish Waterfront Trail
- Playing in one of 95 parks (enjoy playing in the snow with members of your household)
- Discovering our 925 hectares of open spaces, including outdoor fitness equipment
- Hiking 6.5 km of trails at Greenwood Conservation Area (Bring your own equipment to bird watch, snowshoe, and cross-country ski)
- Natural ice rinks at both McLean Community Centre (95 Magill Dr.) and Audley Recreation Centre (1955 Audley Rd. N) – Weather dependant expected to open in January 2021
- Snowshoe Loan Program – Weather dependant expected to be available in January 2021.
To increase parking opportunities, all lots along the Waterfront and at Greenwood Conservation Area will be open and maintained all winter. The only exception are parking lots with permeable pavement. The town’s standard parking by-laws and practices will continue to be enforced.
“TOA continues to urge residents to avoid unnecessary outings, but we recognize the importance of movement and activity for mental and physical health. Residents are encouraged to exercise outside, while limiting contact to those in their household, said Mayor Shaun Collier.
He said the expansion and promotion of Winter TOA programming will help residents reap health benefits while exploring our outdoor spaces and amenities.
“With a wide variety of activities to choose from, there is truly something for everyone, regardless of age or ability. Please remember to follow the 3W’s – wear a mask, wash your hands and watch your distance – no matter what activities you participate in this season. We look forward to offering more programming including snowshoe rentals, stay tuned for more details. On behalf of Ajax Council, I encourage you to bundle up and enjoy the best of winter right here in Ajax!”
PBS Outdoor Rink Quick Facts
- Pat Bayly Square Ice Rink opens December 11 and operates Monday to Sunday from 9:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. Nine (9) skating sessions available daily. Capacity of 25 skaters per session (as per public health guidelines).
- Pre-registration is required at ajax.ca/skating. Resident restrictions apply.
- All skaters at Pat Bayly Square must maintain a physical distance of six feet to those not in their household at all times. The Town is strongly recommending that masks or cloth face coverings be worn on and off the ice surface and masks are mandatory while waiting in line and while in the building.
- Indoor washroom access will be available, however, change rooms are closed and skaters should come ready to skate.
- Customer service representatives will be onsite to facilitate health screening, provide information, confirm registration and assist with line management.