They’ve closed parks and trails. They’ve closed parking lots and banned nearby street parking. Now the District of North Vancouver is closing a series of local roads to all but local traffic because simply too many people are showing up for outdoor rec amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

As of Friday morning, only residents will be allowed to drive down Deep Cove Road, Mt. Seymour Road, Gallant Avenue/Panorama Drive and Indian River Drive/Inlet Crescent.

article continues below

In a statement, Mayor Mike Little said no one wants to restrict access to nature during such a stressful time, but the decision was necessary.

“As hard as it is, everyone needs to follow Dr. Bonnie Henry’s recommendations to stay close to home right now and explore your local neighbourhood,” said Little in a press release. “Our local parks and trails are experiencing the same amount of visitors that we would on a summer weekend, which means that people can’t maintain proper distance between themselves and others. Stay home as much as possible, go for walks or bike rides in your neighbourhood, and keep at least two arms’ length between yourself and others at all times.”

According to the district, bylaw officers and park rangers will be patrolling the restricted areas for enforcement.