COVID-19 Operations Update

Unprecedented times often call for extraordinary actions, and the YMCA has a history of responding to community needs in a variety of ways. We have responded to the recent pandemic by taking action to protect the health, safety and well-being of community members. These efforts include offering no cost emergency childcare for healthcare workers where schools and other child care providers have closed; making virtual programming available and social connectivity during times of physical isolation; delivering groceries to our Senior Citizen members who are self-quarantining; hosting blood drives; closing the facility and programs to protect the most vulnerable; and more. 

 

At this time in our organization’s history, as we have so many times in the past, we will evolve to meet the demands of the day and look toward the future with positivity allowing us to employ a thoughtful, community-centered approach to reopening our Y. Although it is natural to want to return as quickly as possible to pre-pandemic operations and traditional Y programming, understanding the post-pandemic reality calls for restrictions. It is important that our Board of Directors and senior leadership team chart a thoughtful course of action through strategic planning and visioning. On April 28th, Governor Lee announced guidance for gyms and exercise facilities on how to safely reopen.

 

Under the guidance of the Governor and the CDC, guidelines for our reopening are as follows:

Facility will reopen May 4th 

  • Normal facility hours
  • Each open area in the facility will operate at 50% capacity
  • Social distancing of 6 feet will be enforced
  • No group fitness classes until futher notice
    • We will publish a virtual schedule until physical classes resume
  • Kizone will remain closed until further notice
  • Pool will remain closed until further notice
  • Showers will remain closed until futher notice
  • The coffee bar will remain closed until further notice
  • Water fountains will remain closed until further notice (upper filtration system is still available)
  • The facility will not be available for rental (birthday parties, community meetings, etc.)

 

Member Access Guidelines:

  • Members will have temperature checked at the Welcome Center
    • Any persons with a temperature greater than 100.4 degrees will not be granted access
  • Members are encouraged, but not required, to wear mask
  • All members will be asked a 3-question CDC health questionairre upon entry
  • All members will be asked to wash or sanitize hands upon entry
  • We ask that members use only one piece of equipment at a time
  • We ask that members clean machines before and after use

 

Staff Precautions

  • Staff will be required to wear mask
  • Staff will check temperature before each shift
  • Staff will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms before each shift

 

Programs/Events

  • Swim Lesson registration remains open
  • Summer Day Camp registration remains open
  • Youth Sports still remain paused
  • The new date for the Rabbit Run 5k is unscheduled
  • No senior programming (Aging Strong, Enhance Fitness, etc.)
  • No new programs will open until further notice

 

The Y is dedicated to the health and safety of our members, staff and community. We also believe that exercise and social interaction are key to health and happiness. The Y aims to help members meet their physical, social and emotional needs while adhering to the guidelines passed down by the State of Tennessee. Thank you for staying with us!