Forget about closures: Here's what's open in Ottawa-Gatineau during the COVID-19 crisis
It's become near-impossible to keep track of all of the business, workplace and facility closures now in place across Ottawa, let alone all of the events that have been cancelled or postponed.
Taylor Blewett, Ottawa Citizen
Updated: March 18, 2020
It’s become near-impossible to keep track of all of the business, workplace and facility closures now in place across Ottawa, let alone all of the events that have been cancelled or postponed.
On Tuesday, Ontario declared a state of emergency that’s closed recreational facilities, public libraries, private schools, licensed child-care centres, bars, restaurants, theatres, cinemas and concert venues, as well as banning all organized public events of more than 50 people, until at least March 31.
Quebec made a similar declaration March 13.
For those wondering what’s still open in the National Capital Region, here’s a list of some major offerings.
The City of Ottawa is maintaining emergency and essential services, including transit, garbage and recycling, emergency first response, its 311, Ottawa Public Health and revenue call centres, social assistance services and public works operations. You can access many city services online at ottawa.ca and my service.ottawa.ca.
Another consolation: Ottawa bylaw is no longer enforcing parking time limits – indicated by a sign or otherwise – on residential streets, until further notice.
Gatineau’s 311 call centre, service centres, Maison du citoyen, waste transfer station, eco centres, garbage collection and municipal court – aside from hearings – remain operational, according to the city’s website.
While bars and restaurants have been ordered to close by Ontario’s emergency declaration, those offering takeout and delivery can continue doing so. Reach out directly to your local restaurant or business or check their online platforms for information about operational status.
Quebec has closed buffet-style restaurants and sugar shacks, but otherwise restaurants and coffee shops can remain open at 50 per cent customer capacity. Take-out, delivery and drive-thru operations can continue.
LCBO and the Beer Stores remain “open for business,” according to their websites, though the LCBO has reduced all store hours to 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, starting Thursday. The Ontario Cannabis Store continues its online operations, though it will now deliver packages that require proof-of-age or a signature to the post office, rather than directly to customers.
Quebec’s alcohol and cannabis stores – the SAQ and SQDC – remained open as of Tuesday, though client numbers were being limited.
Grocery stores and drug stores are open in both provinces. Ontario Premier Doug Ford noted that Tuesday’s emergency declaration will also not affect most businesses, manufacturing facilities, construction sites, office buildings and important public services.
The Canadian Bankers Association said Tuesday that the country’s six largest banks will be coordinating to temporarily limit operating hours and reduce branch operations “while maintaining critical services for customers.” Banks will keep their customers apprised of any changes, according to the CBA.
Ottawa’s major malls remained open as of Tuesday afternoon, though hours were reduced and some stores have elected to close entirely.
Canada Post continues to operate, though it’s altered some delivery practices for packages that would normally require signatures.
Gatineau Park remains open for recreational activities and trails will be maintained, though access is barred to day shelters, campsites and the visitor centre.
— With files from Postmedia
https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local...ovid-19-crisis
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