BC Announces Phase 3 of the Restart Plan

On June 24th, Permier John Horgan and BC's Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry, announced the onset of Phase 3 of the COVID-19 Restart Plan. Fernie welcomes visitors, but with trip planning and safety in mind. While Fernie has worked hard to reopen and is excited to welcome visitors back, it is important to plan ahead and keep safety in mind.

"We all want summer to be enjoyable as we respect the provincial health and physical distancing guidelines while exploring our town’s outdoors, activities, shops, restaurants and attractions," said Tourism Fernie Executive Officer, Jikke Gyorki.

Tourism Fernie and the Fernie Chamber of Commerce has teamed up to offer our community a wealth of knowledge and guideance during thie pandemic, with weekly and then bi-monthly meetings for business, and a thorough COVID-19 specific web page for regular updates on 'What's Open' and travel advisories. They've also created a page dedicated to helping those travelling to Fernie this summer with fantastic information on what to think about or do prior to or during your stay in Fernie.

It has and continues to be challenging and uncertain times, but it is also hopeful. If we all can move into this next phase being respectful and kind while continuing to follow the recommendations on social distancing, wearing a mask when social distancing is not possible, washing hands and staying home when sick, we can continue to flatten the curve while also supporting our local economy.

"I think this can be an exciting summer for all of us, but be mindful: this is not regular programming," Horgan said Wednesday.

"I don't see us ever putting in restrictions. We haven't so far," Henry said. "But we want people to have their travel manners on… Make sure they're doing what we've been doing, so that we can all stay safe in our communities here in B.C. and when people are going back and forth to their communities in other provinces."

We are so proud of our community. The hard work and diligence of the residents, businesses, organizations and City of Fernie. While this summer might look a little different, let's focus on the positive direction we are moving in.