COVID-19: 125 temporary outdoor patio requests approved, installed in Edmonton

On June 1, under the next phase of Alberta’s “Open For Summer” plan, outdoor dining is once again permitted for up to a four-person household group.

The City of Edmonton said Monday it has continued to accept applications for outdoor patios.

As of May 27, there were 144 requests for temporary patios or outdoor retail space and 125 of them have been approved and installed. Nine locations are set to be installed over the next week, the city said, and the remaining 10 location requests are being processed.

2:00 Edmonton business associations working on street expansion to help restaurants with patio space

“The city is balancing its responsibilities for public safety with the opportunities to provide services Edmontonians enjoy,” city manager Andre Corbould said in a news release.

“We are enhancing some programs because it is safe to do so, and are planning ahead for the next steps towards recovery.”

Indoor restaurant dining won’t be allowed until Stage 2, which could come as early as June 10.

6:51 Premier Jason Kenney defends ‘Open for Summer’ relaunch plan

Stage 2 requires at least 60 per cent of eligible Albertans to get their first COVID-19 vaccine — a milestone Alberta reached on May 28. It also requires hospitalizations stay below 500. As of Monday, there were 439 Albertans in hospital with COVID-19.

The city is making curb lane adjustments to create more space for outdoor dining.

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The Monday news release said curb lane closures will begin this week along Whyte Avenue to allow for additional physical distancing and to support businesses in the area.

2:15 Enclosed patios raise concerns among medical experts

On June 1, the city’s three golf courses will offer nine- or 18-hole play and tee-time bookings. League play, adult and youth golf lessons will resume.

Indoor fitness isn’t permitted until Stage 2, so the city’s recreation centres, outdoor pools and arenas will remain closed until at least June 10.

The city said the Muttart Conservatory, the City Arts Centre, City seniors centres, and indoor spaces at the Edmonton Valley Zoo remain closed.

All 73 spray parks will be turned on this summer, the city said. The first ones will start June 1, but it will take up to four weeks for all parks to be fully operational.

Free Big Bin Events will return the weekend of June 5 and 6, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Callingwood Recreation Centre (17740 69 Ave.) Household items that are too large for regular collection (furniture, appliances, tires, etc.) can be dropped off and disposed of for free.

“We want to remind Edmontonians that preventing COVID-19 is still a priority,” the city said. “Do your part by washing your hands, keeping physically distant and wearing a mask when possible.”