U of S closing all recreational facilities

The University of Saskatchewan is closing all recreational facilities on campus beginning Monday morning to increase preventative measures surrounding the spread of COVID-19 in the province.

According to a press release from the university, all recreational facilities on campus will be closed until further notice as of Monday at 6 a.m.

This announcement comes just two days after the university announced it will be cancelling all classes from Monday through Wednesday as they switch to remote learning starting on Thursday.

The new closures include Merlis Belsher Place, Grifiths Stadium, the Physical Activity Complex and the Education Building.

Also included are all of the university’s gymnasiums, pools, courts, training facilities and changing rooms.

Campus recreation intramurals are also suspended as of Monday. In their statement the university says, “we understand that these cancellations, in some cases, may have monetary impact and we will work to find solutions if refunds for community programs are required.”

As for staff working remotely, the university says that will be determined on a case-by-case basis, with the dean of each college making that decision. This is clarification from earlier information that suggested the university was encouraging their employees to work remotely when possible.

The media release said it “will continue to evaluate our operations and take measures to keep our campus community safe with as little disruption to our students… Should additional preventative measures be required, we will provide information in a timely manner.”