The Bayside Family YMCA has reopened.

After closing its facilities due to the governor’s stay-at-home order surrounding the spread of COVID-19, the Bayside Family YMCA reopened its doors on Thursday, June 4. The YMCA had been closed for 77 days.

Michael Squatrito, the regional executive director of Bayside Family YMCA, said staff members were very excited to share the good news.

“The Bayside Family YMCA has served the community for more than 60 years, during which we have made it through many challenging times together, none perhaps as impactful for our community and our Y as this COVID crisis,” said Mr. Squatrito. “We are thrilled to begin reopening our facilities, welcoming back our members and the community, and getting back to what we do best – helping everyone reach their full potential."

In preparation for reopening facilities, the Bayside Family YMCA has been following guidelines from health experts and local officials to ensure all components of facilities, including fitness equipment, group exercise rooms, and pools are cleaned and sanitized to meet the highest standards for hygiene and safety. The Y has also modified policies and programs to facilitate safe social distancing practices.

In addition to sanitation and social distance guidelines, the Y will also limit the number of members allowed in its facilities. Members will be required to schedule an appointment 24-hours in advance at www.bookaspot.org. Workouts will also be limited to specific time blocks to allow deep cleaning in between appointments.

“When we closed our facilities in March, we did so to protect the health and well-being of all our staff, volunteers, members and participants. As we now reopen our facilities, we do so with that same commitment to keeping everyone who enters our doors safe,” Mr. Squatrito said.

“We are so excited to reopen our facilities to our community. More importantly, our Y has always been more than a building. Our Y is about people – people from all backgrounds and walks of life who come together to improve their lives, nurture their families and strengthen their community. We are so incredibly grateful to the people who have stood by us throughout these challenging times. You were here for your community when it needed it most, and we remain here for you.”