ATHABASCA — After months of opening and closing because of ever-changing COVID-19 restrictions, the Athabasca Regional Multiplex has now managed to remain open for more than a month-and-a-half.
General manager Rhonda Alix said in a July 23 e-mail, usage has been increasing steadily since June 10 when restrictions were eased and even more since July 1 when restrictions were lifted, especially for pool usage.
She hopes the facility will be fully operational by September.
“In the pool we are currently running swimming lessons, Aqua-Fit, lane and public swimming,” said Alix. “There is drop-in use available for the fitness centre and drop-in and private booking available for the fieldhouse.”
The baseball diamonds have been used for minor baseball and slo-pitch, she said, adding plans to accommodate hockey, curling and usage by Edwin Parr Composite (EPC) students as the facility did pre-pandemic are also in the works.
“The Multiplex is planning for 100 per cent return to normal use beginning in September,” she said. “Pool staff is at 100 per cent and the overall facility will be fully staffed for September when we welcome the rest of our user groups back to the facility.”
Alix did note there are still recommendations from Alberta Health Services (AHS) in place to help minimize the spread of respiratory infections like influenza, COVID-19 and the common cold and encourages anyone who feels sick to stay home.
“The Multiplex will be promoting frequent and proper hand hygiene for all attendees,” she said. “We have enhanced our cleaning and disinfecting procedures.”
