The Saint John YMCA is hoping this week will provide them the opportunity they’ve waited for to reopen.
The provincial government had originally given gyms and recreation facilities the go-ahead to reopen on May 29, but that was pushed back to June 5 after the cluster of COVID-19 cases in Campbellton.
The Y is hoping that should the government go ahead with the next phase of economic recovery this week, they can open the doors to patrons Monday, June 8.
Shilo Boucher is the President and CEO of the Saint John Y. She says the keyword for patrons as they return to the gym is “courtesy.”
“Just be courteous to the other members. Everybody wants to reinvigorate themselves and just come back to normal,” Boucher said. “If we all work together then we can do it.”
The Y has implemented several new protocols and procedures in order to limit the spread of COVID-19.
They will be pre-screening at the door, and requiring masks in the entryway, as they don’t have space for proper physical distancing.
Wiping down equipment before and after use is also mandatory, in order to scrub away any germs.
“In classes, the numbers will be different because we’re only able to allow so many people,” said Boucher.
She encouraged patrons to check for class spots online.
Overall, Boucher is primarily just pleased the doors are opening once again.
“Get ready for a little bit of a change, but it’s still the YMCA,” she said. “We want to make sure our members are safe, but also that they’re happy and we’re meeting their needs the best we can.”
