Posted on Wednesday June 24, 2020
Burlington, Ont.—June 24, 2020— In an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and ensure the safety of volunteers and boaters, the boards of directors for the LaSalle Park Marina Association (LPMA) and the Burlington Sailing and Boating Club (BS&BC) have announced the LaSalle Park Community Marina and BS&BC sailing programs will not operate for the 2020 summer season.
The decision to close the marina is made by the LPMA and the BS&SC, who took the following into consideration:
- Volunteer safety – in order to install the docks at the marina, volunteers are required to work within small boats where physical distancing is not possible.
- Shortened boating season - construction of the new wave break at the LaSalle Park Community Marina was delayed due to impacts from COVID-19. While the wave break is now completed, the LPMA estimates the installation of the docks and placement of boats in the water would take four to five weeks, resulting in a significantly shorter boating season.
- Financial impacts – with COVID-19 precautions and a shortened boating season, many boaters have indicated they will not be launching their boats, impacting the funding needed to operate the marina.
Public Boat Launch
The public boat launch at LaSalle Park Community Marina will also remain closed for the summer for boats on trailers. A portion of the parking lot typically used for boat trailers will not be accessible as it continues to be used for the storage of boats and finger docks.
Residents are still able to use the marina area to enjoy views of the water, bird watching and to launch canoes and kayaks that are not on a trailer.
For more information on the LPMA and the LaSalle Park Community Marina, go to burlbay.com.
Burlington is ranked as Canada’s best community and best place to raise a family. It is a City where people, nature and businesses thrive. As residents continue to rediscover many of their favourite spaces and activities in the city, City services may look different as we work to stop the spread of COVID-19. The City’s commitment to providing the community with essential services remains a priority. Sign up to learn more about Burlington at Burlington.ca/Enews and download the free City of Burlington app.
Quote
Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation Services
“Although the City owns the marina, the operational decisions are made by the LPMA. They have made a responsible decision in the best interest of the health and safety of their volunteers as well as one that minimizes costs and risks to boaters. Residents are welcome to use the boat launch for canoeing and kayaking around the lake. It’s a beautiful area with wonderful scenery that can still be enjoyed.”
Quick Facts
- When the LaSalle Park Community Marina opens in 2021, the newly installed wave break will provide better protection for the boats, docks and public who use the marina. The old wave break was at its structural end of life and did not provide adequate protection against larger waves from storms.
- For more information about the wave break, go to burlington.ca/marina.
- Read report RS-06-20, presented to Burlington City Council
COVID-19 Links and Resources
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Communications contact:
Kwab Ako-Adjei
Director, Corporate Communications & Government Relations
Office: 905-335-7600, ext. 7747
kwab.ako-adjei@burlington.ca
