JUNE 25, 2020
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Phase 3 of reopening the YMCA of Central Virginia will begin on July 1st, in line with the State of Virginia's Move Virginia Forward Plan, with the expansion of amenities and reopening of some children's activities.
“We are able to relax a few restrictions,” shared YMCA of Central Virginia CEO Jay Parker, "Beginning July 1st we will expand our capacity to 75%, reopen showers and locker rooms with some modifications to ensure social distancing and on Monday, July 6th we will reopen child watch and kidz gym under new guidelines. We are looking at offering swim lessons and will be adding those back into our program offerings in the very near future as well."
"Reopening the facility in phases is the responsible thing to do," shared Parker. “We have increased our cleaning and sanitizing measures, added temperature checks, and are screening members as they come in,” he said. “For the most part, people have been responsible and respectful while we try to reopen.”
Parker is pleased to see members getting back to the Y so they can take advantage of all that the Y offers the community of Lynchburg and surrounding areas.
“It's great to see that people are getting out and back to their normal lives while keeping themselves safe,” he said.
Some of the positive feedback Parker has received from returning patrons has been regarding the communication the Y has issued regarding the extra cleaning and sanitizing done every day.
“They appreciate the steps we are taking and that we are following CDC guidelines,” he said. “They like that we are communicating with them and taking precautions.”
YMCA member Ben Cowgill has been more than pleased with how the Y has handled the reopening of their facilities, "I have a high level of confidence that my health is in good hands at the YMCA -- higher, in fact, than just about anywhere else in town, outside of my own home."
These precautionary steps do require all three Family Centers; Downtown, Express, and Jamerson Family to have modified hours, which can be found on the Y's website at ymcacva.org.
The YMCA will welcome members back with a member appreciation day on July 1st, and all memberships will be reactivated at that point. On the 1st, members will enjoy a healthy refreshment on the Y and be entered to win door prizes. Members are encouraged to check the website prior to visiting, to view the real time capacity checker, and learn about the guidelines and modifications so they know what to expect when they visit. All of the details for phase three will be available on the YMCA's website no later than Saturday, Junes 27th. Those wishing to join the Y, can do so online or at any of the Y's three convenient locations.