Journal Staff
Sarnia-Lambton can move into Stage 2 of Ontario’s economic reopening plan starting Friday, the Ontario government said today.
"We're pleased to be able to move forward, as a large portion of the province has done already," said Lambton Warden Bill Weber.
"Residents and businesses have been patiently waiting for this news, and we ask for continued patience as businesses work towards reopening safely."
The decision means malls, restaurant patios, pools, beaches, hair salons and other amenities can begin to reopen Friday.
Lambton and six other public health regions earned the green light because their key health indicators have shown improvement, including lower transmission rates of COVID-19 and sufficient hospital and public health capacity, Premier Doug Ford said.
They joint 24 other public health regions that entered Stage 2 last Friday.
The three regions remaining at Stage 1 are Toronto, Peel and Windsor-Essex.
Things that can reopen locally Friday include:
* Outdoor dine-in services at restaurants, bars and other establishments, including patios, curbside, parking lots and adjacent properties;
* Personal care services including tattoo parlours, barber shops, hair salons and beauty salons
* Shopping malls under existing restrictions, including food services reopening for take-out and outdoor dining only
* Bus and bike tours, and walking, bus and boat tours, as well as tasting and tours for wineries, breweries and distilleries
* Outdoor splash pads, wading pools, and all swimming pools
* Beach access and additional camping at Ontario Parks, and camping at private campgrounds
* Outdoor recreational facilities and training for outdoor team sports
* Drive-in and drive-through venues for theatres, concerts, animal attractions and cultural appreciation, such as art installations
While many businesses and public spaces can reopen they are not obligated to until measures are in place to protect employees and customers, the county said.
Lambton Public Health will work with local businesses and municipalities to provide support and resources, it said.
Frequently asked questions, resources and a contact form can be found on the Workplaces page of the Lambton Public Health website.