Kelowna 
Credit: BC Parks
British Columbia has outlined a gradual reopening of its economy with certain health services, retail outlets, restaurants, salons and museums resuming some operations in mid-May.
All of the government’s reopening plans are contingent on organizations developing proposals that follow provincial guidelines to control the spread of COVID-19.
Hotels, resorts and parks would follow in June, with some entertainment venues opening again in July, but not large concerts.
A mix of online and classroom post-secondary education is planned for September, along with classes returning for students in kindergarten to Grade 12.
Conventions, large concerts, international tourism and professional sports with a live audience will not be allowed to resume until either a vaccine is widely available, community immunity has been reached, or effective treatment can be provided for the disease.
What Will Open From Mid-May in B.C.:
— Restoration of health services including elective surgeries, dentistry, physiotherapy, registered massage therapy, chiropractors, physical therapy and speech therapy.
— The retail sector.
— Hair salons, barbers and other personal service establishments.
— In-person counselling.
— Restaurants, cafes, pubs, as long as there is sufficient distancing measures.
— Museums, art galleries, libraries.
— Office-based worksites.
— Recreation and sports.
— Parks, beaches and outdoor spaces.
— Transit services.
— Child care.
What Will Open From June in B.C.:
— Hotels and resorts
— Some overnight camping will be allowed in parks.
— Film industry, beginning with domestic productions, in June and July.
What Will Open From July in B.C.:
— Movies and symphony, but not large concerts.
What Will Open From September in B.C.:
— Post-secondary education, with a mix of online and in-class.
— Kindergarten to Grade 12.
To Be Determined:
— Night clubs, casinos and bars.
— Restrictions on large gatherings of 50 or more will remain in place.
— Conventions and professional sports and concerts with live audiences.
— International tourism.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 6, 2020.
The Canadian Press
