COVID-19 Updates

Local Updates

General Cancellations and Closures - COVID-19

General Cancellations and Closures in Simcoe County due to COVID-19.
Here's what is STILL OPEN in Simcoe-County

Here's what is STILL OPEN in Midland, Orillia, Barrie and Simcoe County during the COIVD-19 pandemic.
Additional measures to force physical distancing in Orillia

The City of Orillia continues to implement new restrictions in order to force residents to follow the rules of physical distancing in the midst of COVID-19. All local events or gatherings up to May 31, 2020 must be postponed or cancelled.
City of Barrie announces temporary layoffs

The City of Barrie has made the difficult decision to temporarily layoff of a portion of its workforce as a result of COVID-19.
Barrie provides update on recreation and culture programming/events

Due to the ongoing pandemic and the need to practice physical distancing, the City of Barrie is cancelling the spring session for registered recreation programming.
Penetang Wharf and boat launch closed - Coronavirus (COVID-19)

In response to the updated provincial order related to the closure of non-essential services, the Town of Penetanguishene wharf and launch ramp will remain closed until further notice.
How to apply for Canada's Emergency Response Benefit

Today is the day that Ottawa will begin accepting applications for the new Canada Emergency Response Benefit... The program will provide 2-thousand dollars a month to Canadians who lost their jobs as businesses were forced to close or reduce operations to slow the spread of the virus
OPP Enforcement during COVID-19 Pandemic

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) encourages businesses and individuals to voluntarily comply with the short-term restrictions introduced by the federal and provincial governments to combat the spread of COVID-19.
Orillia Covid19 Assessment Centre changing weekend hours

The Orillia COVID-19 Assessment Centre will be reducing hours of operation on weekends. The assessment centre will be open from 11 am – 3 pm on Saturday and Sunday moving forward. The assessment centre will continue to be operational from 11 am – 7 pm from Monday to Friday.
Barrie creates a 'snitch' line to report Covid violators

The City of Barrie has set up a dedicated COVID-19 Enforcement Line for the public to report instances of non-compliance with the COVID-19 emergency orders.
Midland defers taxes and waives certain fees

Midland Town Council approved a report recommending Community Relief Measures for Taxes and Utility Interest, that will help alleviate financial concerns for residents during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Barrie Colts to deliver meals to those in need

The Barrie Colts have started preparing meals that will be delivered to those in need including: Barrie Food Bank, David Busby Street Centre, Salvation Army Barrie Bayside Mission Centre and the Women & Children's Shelter (Barrie).
SCHOTT Gemtron Canada supports local community during COVID-19 pandemic

For the month of April, the company is offering municipalities and local businesses up to 10 pieces per entity of free tempered glass to assist with social distancing.
Barrie Transit extends free service until April 30, moves to hourly service

In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Barrie Transit is extending free service until April 30 and starting April 6, will move to an hourly service. Buses will run from approximately 5:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. Monday to Saturday.
Penetang Postpones Wharf Slip Payment Deadline

In light of the ever evolving situation with respect to COVID-19, the Town of Penetanguishene has extended Friday’s payment deadline (April 3) for wharf slip rentals. A new payment due date will be communicated to boaters who have left a deposit to secure their slip for this upcoming season
Send an RVH patient Best Wishes

If you have a family member or friend currently in hospital at RVH, you can bring a smile to their face by using the free Best Wishes service to get a message delivered to their bedside. Send an email to bestwishes@rvh.on.ca and it will be printed for the patient and hand delivered.
City of Barrie providing free garbage tags to help residents

The City of Barrie recognizes that since residents are practicing physical distancing and staying at home during the COVID-19 pandemic, garbage amounts may be increased. Starting today, the City is offering three free garbage tags to households who need them.
Some basic, important rules for grocery shopping
Local photographers collaborate on #TheFrontStepsProject for GBGH

Local photographers are bringing the #TheFrontStepsProject to North Simcoe, taking 5 minutes to capture families on their front steps from a safe distance, in exchange for donations to the GBGH Foundation. Pictured: Ryan & Andrea Lesperance and family.
Mid-Pen Transit shifting daily schedule to reduced Saturday hours

Please be advised that beginning March 31, Mid-Pen Transit will be reducing hours of operation for at least the remainder of this week. The new operating schedule will be the same as the normal Saturday schedule. (first run at 8:45 a.m. for Midland South, last at 4:45 p.m., first run at 8:30 a.m. for Penetanguishene, last at 4:30 p.m.)
Message to the community from Janice Skot, RVH president and CEO

These are challenging and unprecedented times. Be assured Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) is taking extraordinary measures to keep our patients, staff, physicians – and our community – safe.
Township of Springwater services available during COVID-19

With the Province of Ontario announcing the closure of all non-essential businesses in Ontario, The Township of Springwater has realigned its services to ensure our staff and residents remain safe and our critical services and infrastructure are maintained.
Area partners launch donation campaign for urgently needed PPE and supplies

Municipal and health partners in Simcoe and Muskoka, are working together to launch a donation campaign for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and critical supplies that are essential for the provision of safe medical and community care to patients and residents in our region.
Important Information for patients waiting for COVID-19 test results

"Many people are calling our Emergency department and we need to keep those lines clear." Important Information for patients waiting for their COVID-19 test results A reminder to patients who have been swabbed at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) for COVID-19:
Barrie City Council to be streamed live on Youtube Monday night

On Monday, March 30, Barrie City Council will hold a Special Council Meeting virtually starting at 5 p.m. The public can watch the meeting live at the City of Barrie’s YouTube channel or on Rogers TV. The meeting agenda is now available online at http://barrie.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx
City closing more outdoor recreation areas

The City of Barrie continues to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic by increasing precautionary measures to combat the spread of the virus and encourage physical distancing.