Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton and the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) are asking visitors to stay away from the region for recreational travel as BC introduces new travel restrictions.
People outside the Sea to Sky are being asked to postpone their leisure travel to Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton and the SLRD until after May 25 or whenever the B.C. government allows residents to travel to other communities for non-essential travel.
This includes both day trips and overnight trips to the region.
The BC government has brought in travel restrictions effective April 23, and said that travelling to other communities within a health region for recreation or leisure is not okay.
“We urge Lower Mainland and North Shore residents to not travel to the Sea to Sky region for recreation as we work our way back from being a COVID-19 hot spot, and to prevent transmission between our communities,” said Mayor Karen Elliott.
“Like you, we want to get to the other side of these restrictions so that our local businesses and citizens can welcome you back with confidence and excitement. We ask you to help us get through this last push by making a selfless choice and staying close to home.”
“As Minister Farnworth said, do not go to Whistler or Tofino, even on a day trip. Everyone should stay close to home,” said Whistler Mayor Jack Crompton.
Pemberton Mayor Mike Richman also asked for visitors to stay away.
“It is with great reluctance that we are asking visitors to stay away right now so that we can welcome them back to our communities in the near future,” he said.
“The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District is joining our municipalities in the region, and the Province, in reminding people that now is not the time to travel,” said Squamish-Lillooet Regional District Board Chair Jen Ford.
