Manitoba

YMCA-YWCA locations in Winnipeg to start reopening in late June

Young man (or woman), there's no need to feel down, because YMCA and YWCA locations in Winnipeg are opening up again soon.

City of Steinbach also announces reopening of certain city-owned facilities

The YMCA-YWCA has informed its employees in Winnipeg about the reopening plan. (CBC)

Young man (or woman), there's no need to feel down, because YMCA-YWCA locations in Winnipeg are opening up again soon.

Gyms and fitness centres were allowed to reopen in Phase 2 of Manitoba's reopening strategy, which came into effect June 1. But facilities have to ensure physical distancing, and follow disinfecting protocols and capacity limits.

The charitable organization says the reopening of its Winnipeg centres will be slow and has several stages: 

  • The West Portage location (at 3550 Portage Ave.) reopens June 22.
  • The South Y (located on Fermor Avenue in Elm Park) and Elmwood-Kildonan Y (on Kimberly Avenue) are slated to reopen July 6.
  • Day camps will reopen at those three locations as of July 6.
  • A reopening date for the location in downtown Winnipeg is yet to be determined.

The dates could change, depending on how the COVID-19 pandemic fluctuates, the organization said.

Like many other places around the city and province, the YMCA-YWCA's West Portage branch in Winnipeg was closed in March. It's set to reopen on June 22. (Tyson Koschik/CBC)

Certain staff from various locations will be called in to work at the West Portage location so they can be trained in safety protocols, and pass the training on to the rest of the staff at their regular Y.

Details about the reopening will be sent to Y members on June 8.

Steinbach facilities reopening

The City of Steinbach announced Friday that many of its recreational facilities have also reopened, or will open in the coming weeks and months.

All public restrooms at city parks are now open, as are sports fields and park shelters.

Handi-transit in the city will resume regular service from Monday to Friday as of June 8.

The outdoor pool and splash park at the Steinbach Aquatic Centre are opening at reduced capacity on June 12.

In July, swimming lessons will be offered in the outdoor pool. Registration for swimming lessons runs from June 23-25; registration information can be found on the city's website.

The indoor facilities at Steinbach Aquatic Centre are closed until September for upgrades, including painting, lighting and ventilation.

Summer day camps will run throughout July and August. Parents can register their children for camp online at steinbach.ca. 

The reopening date for the splash park in downtown Steinbach is still pending.