Alberta communities outside of Lloydminster will be moving on to the next phase of reopening one week ahead of schedule.
Premier Jason Kenney announced the province will be going forward with stage two on June 12. He says the decision was made due to strong testing data showing the rate of hospitalizations and infections falling below modelled projections.
“Our data tells us our active cases are low, hospitalizations are trending downward and people are taking action to protect those most vulnerable and prevent the spread of the virus. We will continue to move forward together to overcome any though times ahead, but responsible Albertans should be proud of the vigilance they have shown to date.”
Under stage two, more businesses will be allowed to open while following provincial health guidelines. Some businesses originally included in stage three have been moved to stage two and will reopen.
What can reopen in stage two under health guidelines include:
- K-12 schools, for requested diploma exams and summer school, following guidance
- Libraries
- More surgeries
- Wellness services such as massage, acupuncture and reflexology
- Personal services (esthetics, cosmetic skin and body treatments, manicures, pedicures, waxing, facial treatment, artificial tanning)
- Indoor recreation, fitness, and sports, including gyms and arenas
- Movie theatres and theatres
- Community halls
- Team sports
- Pools for leisure swimming
- VLTs in restaurants and bars
- Casinos and bingo halls (but not table games)
- Instrumental concerts
The 50 per cent capacity limit in provincial campgrounds has all camping sites will be open for reservation by July 1. The reservation system will be updated in phases.
Larger gatherings will also be permitted and indoor social gatherings will be allowed a maximum of 50 people. Outdoor events limits will have a 100 person maximum.
The cap on gatherings at places of worship, restaurants, cafés, lounges, bars, casinos and bingo halls will also be lifted.
Non-essential travel outside of the province is still not recommended and larger events such as concerts, festivals and major sporting events are not approved in this stage.
All businesses within the City of Lloydminster should follow the Re-open Saskatchewan plan.