The Harry Balfour School playground was one of several playgrounds to re-open on June 1 for the first time since March. Photo Credit: Shane Clausing

By Shane Clausing

Grande Prairie playgrounds

Playgrounds in Grande Prairie area re-open for first time since March

Jun 1, 2020 | 1:02 PM

For the first time since March, playgrounds across the Grande Prairie area are open for public use.

Playgrounds across the region were closed and taped off back in March to help prevent any potential spread of COVID-19.

With the re-opening Monday, several families headed down to Muskoseepi Park to take advantage of the nice weather and the opportunity to get out of the house.

Vallyn Smith took her family to the playground today and couldn’t be happier to be back.

“It’s so awesome, the weathers beautiful and I love it. It’s nice to see everybody out,” said Smith.

Upcoming Events at Oliver's

Grief & Loss and Estate Planning Seminars

Oct 02, 2024

Local History

Oliver's Funeral Home - 109 years of Service

Sep 04, 2024

Funeral Alternatives

When You Don't Want A Funeral

Aug 07, 2024

Kira Teichroeb, who also took her kids out to the playground, says she’s not concerned about playgrounds re-opening.

“We’re thrilled, I am of the belief that children need to develop their immune system, so I’m not really worried about them touching the playground or being on it. Just wash their hands later and make sure we’re being clean.”

Teichroeb says her kids were surprised by the news of playgrounds re-opening this morning.

“I didn’t tell them we could go to the parks until this morning. It’s nice not just having to tell them, ‘no’ all the time, every time they see a playground or go do something. It’s been, ‘no you can’t’ but now we can.”

GPREP (Grande Prairie Regional Emergency Partnership) has put up signage across all parks in the region to help educate and remind people to continue to practice social distancing and good hygiene.

Photo Credit: Shane Clausing

Anyone with flu like symptoms or are feeling unwell is asked to stay home from the parks and playgrounds.The public is also asked to avoid sharing common sporting equipment unless the individuals are from the same household.

Masks are also recommended in public places when a two-metre physical distance cannot be maintained.