NCC plans to keep skateway open amid new restrictions

The National Capital Commission's outdoor assets will remain open for exercise and outdoor use, including continuing with preparations to open the Rideau Canal Skateway when it's safe, the NCC announced Wednesday evening.

“The NCC understands the importance for people to get outdoors to exercise during the pandemic,” the Crown corporation said in a statement.

“That said, consistent with public health directives, we ask that residents utilize those NCC assets closest to their homes. We have greatly expanded our winter offering this year, and there are plenty of winter trails to explore in all parts of the National Capital Region.”

The NCC said its decision had been made in consultation with public health authorities, including going ahead with preparations to safely open the skateway.

However, the skateway will be for exercise only; food and beverage concession stands, rentals and fire pits will be closed. The NCC will add sanitization stands and bidirectional staircases, where possible.

The NCC Bistro at Remic Rapids Park on the Ottawa River will also be closed during the state of emergency in Ontario.

Users are asked to wear masks on the skateway.

In a bid to help create additional outdoor space for people living in more densely populated areas, the NCC plans to open a section of the Queen Elizabeth Driveway, for active use only, daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Last summer, the NCC ran a pilot project that closed the Driveway to vehicle traffic between Laurier Street and Fifth Avenue for part of each day.

The NCC said it was counting on the co-operation of users to comply with provincial health measures as well as the health measures residents have practised for months, including frequent handwashing, maintaining a safe distance from others, and wearing masks when physical distancing is not possible.