St. Marys Quarry opening July 6

COVID-19 protocols will be in place to protect swimmers and staff

Swimmers will soon be able to make a splash at the St. Marys Quarry. Canada’s largest outdoor freshwater swimming pool is opening on Monday, July 6, 2020 following a delayed start due to COVID-19.

A number of new protocols will be in place this summer to protect swimmers and staff. There will be three dedicated swim times every day to ensure all physical distancing, cleaning and staffing measures can be met. A maximum of 70 patrons will be able to participate in each swim.

The three swims will take place from 1:00 to 2:45 p.m., 3:15 to 5:00 p.m., and 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Patrons will have to register in advance for all swims through the Town’s website. A link to the registration page, instructions for how to register and a handy guide to planning a quarry visit are available at www.townofstmarys.com/quarry.

Payment must be made at the time of registration; no in-person payments will be accepted at the quarry. The cost for each swim will be $4.50 per child or youth and $7.00 for adults. Due to the advance registration requirements, swim passes, YMCA memberships and St. Marys Public Library passes will not be accepted at this time.

All patrons will undergo COVID-19 screening when they arrive at the quarry and will be asked to follow the directional signage on site. Swimmers must practice physical distancing during their visit and are encouraged to bring their own non-alcoholic drinks and snacks; the canteen will not be open for refreshments.

Once in the quarry, patrons can enjoy the rafts and cliff jump, but the trampoline, slide, inflatable waterpark and beach volleyball courts will be unavailable. Stand-up paddle board and kayak rentals will not be available when the quarry re-opens, but may be offered later this summer. Swimming lessons will not be offered at the quarry in 2020.

“While much has changed at the quarry this year, some things remain the same,” said Stephanie Ische, Director of Community Services. “Swimmers will experience the same refreshing water, friendly staff and breathtaking scenery that has made the quarry a beloved destination for so long.”

“I think I can speak confidently for all of Council when I say that we are thrilled to welcome swimmers back to the quarry,” said Mayor Al Strathdee. “As always, health and safety remain the priority, so we ask patrons to respect the new rules and be patient with staff as we re-open the facility.”

The quarry will be open seven days a week until Monday, September 7, 2020. More information about the quarry and its new COVID-19 protocols is available at www.townofstmarys.com/quarry.

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Contact

Brett O’Reilly | Corporate Communications & Events Manager
519-284-2340, ext. 432 | boreilly@town.stmarys.on.ca