As Chester County entered the green phase of the state's plan for reopening, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW) welcomed back its members and the community on June 29. Facilities will open in phases to ensure the safest experience possible.
During the first week, wellness centers and indoor tracks, as well as limited group exercise classes, were offered. On July 6, YGBW was scheduled to reopen Childwatch, as well as indoor lap pools and locker rooms for lap swimmers only. Additional amenities and programming will reopen soon. For a detailed list of amenities and specific guidelines for each, readers may visit http://www.ymcagbw.org.
As a thank you to both existing and new members, membership dues will be reduced by 20% through Monday, Aug. 31. To purchase a membership, readers may visit http://www.ymcagbw.org/membership.
YGBW's highest priority has always been protecting members' health and safety, but in light of COVID-19, new protocols have been implemented, staff members have been retrained in the latest cleaning and disinfecting procedures and many modifications have been made to the facilities to continue providing members with the safest experience possible.
New protocols include health screenings and temperature checks for all staff, members and visitors entering the facilities. Anyone showing signs of COVID-19 or who has a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher will not be permitted to enter.
Face masks are required when entering the YMCA and when in common areas of the YMCA. Masks may be removed during cardio workouts and group exercise classes. Staff members will wear masks at all times, except when leading a group exercise class.
The latest cleaning protocols from the CDC have been implemented, including the use of EPA-registered solutions and electrostatic sprayers.
Fitness equipment has been spaced out and group exercise studios have been reconfigured to ensure social distancing.
An updated member code of conduct has also been implemented to ensure everyone works together to create the safest experience possible. Additional information about YGBW's updated health and safety protocols and procedures can be found at http://www.ymcagbw.org/protecting-your-health-safetyonline.
Six YGBW locations opened on June 29. The Oscar Lasko branch in West Chester is expected to reopen for fitness activities in the fall. It is currently open for summer camp and child care.
Branches that are open are Brandywine YMCA, 295 Hurley Road, Coatesville; Jennersville YMCA, 880 W. Baltimore Pike, West Grove; Kennett Area YMCA, 101 Race St., Kennett Square; Lionville YMCA, 101 Devon Drive, Exton; Upper Main Line YMCA, 1416 Berwyn-Paoli Road, Berwyn; and West Chester YMCA, 605 Airport Road, West Chester.
Notably, branch hours have been adjusted to allow ample time for cleaning and disinfecting. Hours are Mondays through Thursdays, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Fridays, 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Saturdays and Sundays, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hours for those at high risk for COVID-19 are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 3 p.m.
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