Mississauga reopens city-owned golf courses

Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie might have serious concerns about the Ontario government’s reopening plan, but the city is moving in step with the province and opening city-run golf courses.  

On May 15, the city announced that it will be reopening its two golf courses, BraeBen and Lakeview. 

Golf courses are the first city facilities in Mississauga to open. The city says it will be meeting COVID-19 safety guidelines established by the province and will incorporate other best practices within the industry.

“I’m supportive of the province’s decision to reopen golf courses with strict physical distancing and enhanced health and safety measures in place. I know many golfers are anxious to hit the green and enjoy the great outdoors. While the experience may be a bit different this year, the safety of players and staff is our top priority right now,” said Crombie in a statement. 

“Most golfers I know spend most of their time away from others looking for their ball. These reopenings will also help the city recover lost revenue and address our financial losses as a result of this pandemic.”

BraeBen will open to customers on Saturday, May 16, 2020, and Lakeview will open the following week on Thursday, May 21, 2020. 

Tee times can be booked over the phone and online as of Friday, May 15 at 8 a.m. BraeBen’s 9-hole course and driving range will remain closed until further notice. 

All tournaments, instruction, group clinics, and league play will not be permitted until further notice.

“Staff have been working hard over the past several weeks preparing our two great golf courses in anticipation of today’s announcement, and we look forward to helping our residents slowly get back to a more active and enjoyable quality of life,” said Shari Lichterman, Director, Recreation, in a statement. 

“All measures such as physical distancing, proper hygiene standards, screening protocols and use of proper PPEs will be enforced within the clubhouse, as well as maintenance buildings to keep our staff and the public safe.” 

The following procedures will be in place at both golf courses to ensure overall public safety consistent with recently announced provincial guidelines:

Golf Course

• Practice greens to remain closed
• Tee-times will be spaced out to reduce congestion
• Bookings must be made in advance by phone or online
• Flags must remain in place and holes will be modified for hands-free ball retrieval
• Bunker rakes, ball washers and water stations will be removed from the course
• Benches will be removed or blocked off
• On-course washrooms will remain closed
• No beverage carts
• Power carts will be limited to one person per cart unless the occupants reside in the same household
• Power carts, pull carts and rental clubs will be thoroughly disinfected after each use

Food Services

Only limited menu, grab and go food services will be offered   

Clubhouse & Proshop

The Clubhouse will remain closed to the public with the exception of the proshop areas for check-in and washroom access

Door attendant to use screening measures with all guests and staff, and limit access to clubhouse/proshop with a separate entrance and exit

All tables and chairs inside and outside of the clubhouse will be removed

Protective plexiglass shields will be installed at pro-shop and food concession counters

Floor markings will be added to ground indicating 6ft spacing

Only pre-packaged balls and tees will be sold. All other retail options will be put away until further notice such as clothing, golf shoes, hats and accessories

Customers will be encouraged to use debit or credit card for payments, but cash accepted if necessary