By Greg Ellison
Swim club pool expected to reopen on June 12
(June 4, 2020) Plans are afoot to reopen pool facilities at the Ocean Pines Yacht and Beach Clubs this weekend, assuming that it meets with the approval of the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors.
Speaking on Tuesday, General Manager John Viola said reopening plans for both aquatic locations were being submitted for final board approval during its meeting the following day.
On May 27, Gov. Larry Hogan announced the latest round of phased in reopening plans, which as of last Friday were expanded to include outdoor pool facilities.
Director of Amenities and Operational Logistics Colby Phillips said in addition to the Yacht Club Pool welcoming back limited crowds on Friday, followed by the Beach Club Pool on Saturday, aquatic facilities at the Swim and Racquet Club will re-launch June 12, followed by Mumford’s Landing on June 17.
“We’re going to be doing a reservation system,” she said. “It’s only going to be for pool members and residents.”
The reservation requirement is needed because of Maryland’s phase one reopening plans for outdoor pools limit attendance to 25 percent capacity.
Still to be determined is the date for reopening the Sports Core Pool, with more information anticipated next week regarding classes at that facility.
“I’ll know more at the end of the week,” she said.
Hogan’s executive order also included stipulations for political subdivisions to work in conjunction with area health department officials to coordinate reopening plans.
Phillips said detailed safety procedures for pool facilities are still being finalized with final details anticipated later this week.
“We’re working closely with the [Worcester County] Health Department,” she said.
Phillips said two reservation phone numbers, one each for pool members and residents, would be announced later this week.
“Pool members can call the day before between 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., [and] residents can call between 1-5 p.m.,” she said.
Phillips said restricting access to nonresidents during the initial reopening plan would permit accurate contact tracing to monitor the pandemic situation.
“We ask for patience during this new process,” she said. “Customer service and safety are very important.”