Now that Chester County has entered the green phase of the state’s plan for reopening, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine is ready to welcome back its members and the community on Monday.

Facilities will open in phases to ensure the safest experience possible.

During the first week, wellness centers and indoor tracks, as well as limited group exercise classes, will be available. On July 6, YGBW anticipates reopening Childwatch, as well as indoor lap pools and locker rooms (for lap swimmers only). Additional amenities and programming will reopen soon.

Click here for a detailed list of amenities and specific guidelines for each.

“The entire YGBW staff is thrilled to reopen and welcome members back to our facilities,” said Denise Day, President and CEO of YGBW. “Community is at the core of our mission, and our community has been incredible over the past three months. Their donations during this time allowed us to offer virtual group exercise classes, run food drives, and open our YMCA facilities for blood drives to address a critical blood shortage. We can’t wait to see everyone back at the Y!”

As a thank-you to members – both existing and new – membership dues will be reduced by 20 percent through Aug. 31. Click here to purchase a membership.

YGBW’s highest priority has always been protecting members’ health and safety. In light of COVID-19, new protocols have been implemented, staff has been retrained in the latest cleaning and disinfecting procedures, and many modifications have been made to the facilities to continue providing members with the safest experience possible.

These protocols include but are not limited to:

• Health screenings and temperature checks for all staff, members, and visitors entering the facilities. Anyone showing signs of COVID-19 or who has a temperature of 100.4 or higher will not be permitted to enter.
• Face masks are required when entering the YMCA and when in common areas of the YMCA. Masks may be removed during cardio workouts and group exercise classes. Staff will wear masks at all times, except when leading a group exercise class.
• The latest cleaning protocols from the CDC have been implemented, including the use of EPA-registered solutions and electrostatic sprayers.
• Fitness equipment has been spaced out and group exercise studios have been reconfigured to ensure social distancing.

An updated member code of conduct has also been implemented to ensure everyone works together to create the safest experience possible. Additional information about YGBW’s updated health and safety protocols and procedures can be found here.

Six YGBW locations will open on Monday, with the exception of the Oscar Lasko branch in West Chester, which is expected to reopen for fitness activities in the fall. It is currently open for summer camp and childcare.

• Brandywine YMCA
• Jennersville YMCA
• Kennett Area YMCA
• Lionville YMCA
• Upper Main Line YMCA
• West Chester YMCA

Notably, branch hours have been adjusted to allow ample time for cleaning and disinfecting.

• Monday-Thursday: 6 AM-8 PM
• Friday: 6 AM-7 PM
• Saturday and Sunday: 7 AM-3 PM
• Hours for those at high risk for COVID-19: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-3 PM

“Our team has been working hard over the past several weeks to prepare for reopening,” said Day. “Although things will look a bit different to protect everyone’s health and safety, we are all excited to reopen and welcome our community back safely.”

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