The RCMP Heritage Centre will swing its doors open to the public on Wednesday for the first time since late March.
Those coming to visit will have to wear a mask. If you don’t have one, one will be provided for you. All must also complete a questionnaire which does contain some personal contact information. Those not wanting to complete the questionnaire will not be allowed inside.
Dan Toppings, executive director with the Heritage Centre, said it was important to find a way to reopen in order to continue telling the story of the RCMP and Canadian history.
“We’re used to being open seven days a week and having lots of tourists come through here in the summer time, cadets graduating, school groups going through, but all those plans have been put on hold due to the COVID-19 virus,” he explained. “So we’re looking at different ways to get our message out there.
Interactive exhibits will not be open and tours of Depot division and viewing of the Sergeant Major’s parade are suspended indefinitely for the safety of visitors. “We’ve looked at other things to fill the gaps,” added Toppings.
Since some guest favourites won’t be available, the centre noted there will be other experiences both inside and outside the building to enjoy including day camps for children on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday mornings.
Those going may also have to wait as entries will be staggered to maintain physical distancing. Toppings said they can accommodate up to 70 people without any problems, but he doesn’t expect them to reach capacity at a time since bus companies are not arriving at the building.
The plan is to handle groups of six at a time going into the main gallery.
Admission is by donation.
(With files from Moises Canales)
