Apr 09, 2020

Ladysmith closes trailhead parking lots to ease congestion, discourage visitors

The Town of Ladysmith is reminding residents ahead of the Easter long weekend to stay home, avoid non-essential travel and enjoy the parks and trails in our community safely.
 
BC Parks has closed all provincial parks and trails this weekend to deter people from travelling between communities, and the Town supports this directive. Our community parks will remain open to local residents for now.  
 
However, as part of the Town’s continued effort to protect public health and reinforce provincial health orders and recommendations around physical distancing and not gathering in groups, the Holland Creek Trail parking lots at the Dogwood Dip, Mackie Road and 6th Avenue near the RCMP detachment are being closed immediately until further notice. 
 
The Town understands the strong desire for everyone to be outside as temperatures begin to warm and days are becoming longer.  Please, respect those who live near the trail and walk within your own neighbourhood this weekend.
 
Closing the parking lots will ease congestion at the trailhead, decrease the number of hikers and walkers on the Holland Creek Trail loop and discourage visitors to our community this weekend.
 
“This Easter long weekend, by following the Provincial Medical Officer’s recommendations and encouraging others to do the same, you are protecting yourself, your family and your community,” said Mayor Aaron Stone.   
 
“I would also strongly encourage anyone planning a visit to Ladysmith to instead stay in their home community. You’re welcome to explore our downtown, trails and waterfront when it’s safe and you can really experience all that our town has to offer.”
 
The Town has also closed the parking lots at Transfer Beach Park until further notice as part of our effort to deter groups of people from gathering in one place, or traveling to Ladysmith to use amenities such as the off-leash dog park. 
 
Please obey signage posted at parks, trailheads and open spaces promoting physical distancing as we all make a collective effort to flatten the curve. 
 
For the latest information on COVID-19, including a list of Frequently Asked Questions and contacts for Town staff please see www.ladysmith.ca/covid-19.