Jacksonville-area coronavirus updates: First Coast YMCA to reopen 14 locations Monday

NORTHEAST FLORIDA, SOUTHEAST GEORGIA — More than 49,500 people in Florida and 42,900 people in Georgia have been infected with the new coronavirus, and the number of deaths from the outbreak continues to rise. Officials are attempting to contain the COVID-19 outbreak in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia as schools, businesses and public events are closed or canceled.

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NOTE: As new information related to the coronavirus comes in regarding Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia, we will update this story. Please read the entire article for the latest information from May 23.

First Coast YMCA to reopen 14 locations Monday

May 25, 5 a.m.: The First Coast YMCA will welcome back members at its Northeast Florida locations on Monday. The Y will open in a phased approached to offer a variety of programs and services with appropriate guidance from health officials to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The Y will be open Monday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

New branch hours begin Tuesday, May 26, with the hours of 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. encouraged for vulnerable populations, including active older adults.

Reservations will be required for activities including group exercise classes and lap swimming.

The Y will implement new policies and procedures to ensure the safety of everyone in its branches, including:

• The Y will limit facility capacity and class size to meet social distancing guidelines.
• Y employees, except Rescue Ready lifeguards and Group Exercise instructors teaching class, must wear face masks. Members will be encouraged to wear face masks.
• Health assessments, including a quick survey and temperature check, will be required for everyone at the Y.
• Members will be asked to sanitize or wash their hands before and after a workout and clean equipment with disinfectant wipes provided by the facility before and after use.
• The Y has also implemented new stringent cleaning protocols including frequent disinfecting of equipment and high-touch surfaces. The Y will only use cleaning products that meet the EPA’s criteria for use against COVID-19.

“As a community organization serving diverse populations, the Y is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all. As the current public health situation evolves, the Y will continue to evaluate how it can best serve community needs while prioritizing safety,” The First Coast YMCA said in a statement.

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