The DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) announced together with Mayor Muriel Bowser that 29 recreation centers, including indoor swimming pools and gyms, will reopen starting October.
As part of the decision, there will be limited in-person fall programs at specific DPR locations and virtual programs, all of which require registration.
DC residents will be able to benefit from limited socially distanced programs offered at 29 recreation centers through advanced reservations. Seven indoor swimming pools and 19 free fitness centers are among the selected locations. Tech lounges can also be reserved with limited occupancy.
The facilities that will initially open are Marie Reed Aquatic Center, Wilson Aquatic Center, Takoma Aquatic Center, Turkey Thicket Aquatic Center, William H. Rumsey Aquatic Center, and Barry Farm Aquatic Center.
“Recreation centers, aquatic centers and many recreational programs have been shut down since March 16, 2020 in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19),” DPR Director Delano Hunter was quoted as saying in DPR’s announcement. “We are excited to increase health and wellness opportunities that benefit all eight wards, while safely welcoming residents back inside our facilities.”
Registration will start Thursday, October 1 at 9 am, and the actual programs and offerings will begin on Tuesday, October 13, according to the agency’s statement.
Participants of the fall programs at recreation centers are required to follow certain health and safety protocols such as wearing a face mask, social distancing, handwashing, and regular use of hand sanitizers.
Patrons also have to show state-issued photo ID upon entry to DPR’s recreation centers in order to facilitate COVID-19 contact tracing.