I hope this message finds you and your families healthy and safe.

As I noted a few days ago, the state had issued an update that stated that pool capacity was limited to 4 swimmers at any time as part of a temporary reduction that has an original end date of January 19.  As noted, the CT YMCAs (among others) were seeking clarification.  Today, the rules were clarified to adjust for size by limiting 1 swimmer per lane.  While the clarification is better than the original announcement, it is a significant restriction.  It is our understanding that the state is less concerned about the activity within the pool than it is with respect to occupancy levels as well as moving to and from the pool.

The new operating capacity is consistent with the occupancy level when we reopened in June.  As such, we will be returning to a modified initial reopening model.

• Olympic Pool
  • One swimmer per lane.
  • The starting times will be staggered to maintain occupancy levels on deck
    • 55-minute swim sessions that will start at the 0:00, 0:15, 0:30 and 0:45
  • Reserving back-to-back sessions are no longer permitted.
  • No parents or guardians permitted on the pool deck
    • The bleachers will be raised and cones used to direct traffic will be returned.
  • Alumni Pool
    • Continue to be used for lessons and classes
    • Occupancy limits will be adjusted based upon specific program.

Transition – new rules go into effect at our Friday opening.

Our Reservation System needs to be adjusted to reflect these changes.  As has been noted in my previous messages, there are many who abuse the Reservation System – e.g., recording reservations in advance of the two-day limit as well as recording fictitious lane partners to secure a single lane for oneself.  Some of these abuses will be resolved by the new parameters.  As for the others, we have been tolerant of these abuses to date but will be taking a harder line in the interest of balance.

With that as background – we need time to adjust the Reservation System and have already accepted reservations for Wednesday and Thursday:

• Any new or adjusted reservations for Wednesday or Thursday need to be done through the Front Desk
  • The App will not be available.
• Friday reservations will be accepted beginning 6 PM on Wednesday.
  • Your cooperation is appreciated.
  • That said, anyone who records a reservation in advance of 6 PM will have their reservation revoked and will be blocked from making any reservations for the subsequent 3-day period.

I appreciate your support and hope that these adjustments are limited to the mid-January timeframe.

Stay Health and Safe!