YMCA to reopen its pools
Published 6:49 pm Tuesday, May 26, 2020
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After more than two months closed, the Stanly County Family YMCA announced on its Facebook page Tuesday that its two swimming pools will reopen at 50 percent capacity beginning Wednesday.
“Please be assured that your safety is our number one priority,” the Y said in a statement. “We have put careful thought and planning into our reopening.”
The Y is following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, local health agencies and public officials to update its policies, practices and procedures to ensure cleanliness and hygiene and are making accommodations for social distancing “so that every person who walks through our doors can stay safe and protected while getting back to what matters most: your health, your family and friends, and your community.”
YMCA CEO George Crooker said while the pools are open, the rest of the facility is still closed. Gyms and indoor fitness facilities will remain closed during Phase 2 of Gov. Roy Cooper’s reopening plan because of the potential spread of the virus.
“We’re excited to be able to serve,” Crooker said. “We’re going to open, but we’re going to open responsibly and hopefully ease into some kind of normality.”
The Y closed March 19. It was the last YMCA in the state to close, Crooker said.
Reservations for lap swimming will be required at least one day in advance and the maximum swim time will be 30 minutes. People can call or stop by the membership desk to reserve a lane.
People are also advised to bring their own towels, as the Y will not have towel service.
Modified group exercise classes for land and water will begin Monday. Schedules will be posted later this week. Due to CDC guidelines, class participation will be limited. Land group exercise classes will be outdoors and dependent on the weather.
Minnie’s Place and High 5 is taking one-hour reservations for childcare that will also begin on Monday. Capacity will be limited, so make a reservation early.
All members are required to complete an updated waiver before entering the facility or participating in a group class. Adult and minor waivers are available online or at the membership desk.
Locker rooms and showers will be available for limited use so long as people maintain proper social distance.
Crooker said parents still have time to enroll their kids in the Y’s summer day camps, but the spots are quickly filling up. Overnight and day camps are allowed to open as part of the Phase 2 guidelines.