July 20: Reopening Announcement

We are busily preparing to reopen the Rec Center in the safest way possible that protects our users and our staff. Our planned opening date is July 28, though this is subject to change. Until August 28 our hours will be Monday – Friday from 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. We have some final preparations to accomplish in the Rec Center and are working to acquire all the supplies required to be able to open safely. Please stay tuned for emails and media posts about how things will work when we open the doors.

That said, please keep in mind, you will be required to wear a face covering when on campus, to enter the Rec Center, while in the Rec Center, and while working out. Before you enter we will do temperature checks and ask you to answer some questions. We will also ask you to wash your hands frequently and clean the machines or weights *before and after* you use them, and only bring the necessities with you to the Rec Center such as keys, ID and cell phone. Come dressed to exercise so you don’t require a bag.

In order to best promote the health and safety of all facility patrons and staff, new protocols have been implemented, including social distancing, re-spacing of fitness equipment, and expanded cleaning and disinfecting of equipment and surfaces. Due to these new protocols, certain equipment and areas of the fitness center will not be available for use. Most shared equipment has been removed, including mats. The pool, sauna, racquetball/squash courts, and locker rooms will not be available at this time. Capacity limits will be enforced in other spaces. Our current limit in the Rec Center is 50. Only UMaine students and employees, and local residents who had active memberships on March 16, 2020, will have access to the Rec Center. No day passes, use of punch passes, group use, or new memberships will be available at this time. We will also be discontinuing the 30-day short term membership option. Towel service has been discontinued.

We have strong plans to help keep us all as safe as possible as we get back to the gym. We need all of us to do our part for the health of our community. The most important thing we can all do is wear face coverings while on campus as directed/requested. It will be good to see folks in person again!