JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 May 15, 2020 \u2013 The YMCA of Florida\u2019s First Coast is pleased to reopen its facilities to First Coast members beginning Monday, May 25, 2020. Per an announcement today regarding the reopening of gyms across the state of Florida from Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL), the Y is implementing a phased approach to ensure the safety of all members and staff.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe First Coast YMCA is thrilled with Governor DeSantis\u2019 announcement that gyms in Florida can reopen starting Monday. As we navigate through reopening our facilities across the First Coast, our team continues to put the needs, health and safety of our members and staff at the forefront of our decision-making process. We serve many different populations, including our community\u2019s most vulnerable, and are choosing to open in a phased approach beginning Monday, May 25, in order to properly prepare our 15 branches for our nearly 48,000 members and train more than 850 employees on new safety guidelines. While the Y will look very different with modified programs and new protocols, our commitment to strengthening this community will not. We can\u2019t wait to welcome back our members and staff.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Y will implement a three-phased approach to offer programs and services to members with appropriate guidance from health officials to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Phases are not time-based and will be modified and revised as guidance changes.<\/p>\n
The Y will reopen on Monday, May 25 from 7:00am \u2013 3:00pm.<\/p>\n
At this time, the Y will expect members and staff to follow these guidelines:<\/p>\n
\u2022 Updated hours of operation will vary by branch, with time allotted for active older adults and vulnerable populations. Facility capacity and class size will be limited to meet social distancing guidelines. Reservations will be required for some programs and classes.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Upon return to work, Y staff (apart from lifeguards on active duty and Group Exercise instructors teaching class), must wear face masks during their shift.<\/p>\n
\u2022 All members and staff will have temperatures monitored upon entry into Y facilities and are required to practice social distancing.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Hand sanitizing stations and disinfectant wipes for equipment will be provided throughout each facility.<\/p>\n
\u2022 New stringent cleaning and disinfecting protocols are also being implemented throughout all areas of Y facilities and program sites. The Y will only use cleaners on CDC List N: Disinfectants for use against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.<\/p>\n
Prior to reopening, Y staff are required to complete training to comply with new policies and procedures at each of the First Coast YMCA\u2019s 15 facilities across Northeast Florida. At this time, activities such as open gym, swim lessons and adult and\/or youth sports will not be available, but will be considered in subsequent phases based on guidance from health officials. The Y will continue to provide LIVE virtual services to members through its Facebook page at www.facebook.com\/firstcoastymca and On Demand workouts on YouTube at www.youtube.com\/firstcoastymca.<\/p>\n