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Hillsborough County reopens recreation centers with safety protocols

Posted at 7:47 PM, Oct 12, 2020
and last updated 2020-10-12 19:47:09-04

TAMPA, Fla. -- Hillsborough County residents now have another option available to stay active.

Hillsborough County closed more than a dozen of its recreation centers in late March because of coronavirus concerns.

On Monday, staffed recreation centers reopened. Before you head over to use the free services at the rec center, there are some new safety protocols you need to know. All staff and rec center users will have their temperature taken and a face covering is required.

“If they are participating in exercise, they can take it off while participating in exercise, but while they’re waiting on the bench, or between different sessions, they would need to have a mask on,” explained Adrienne Rouse, Manager of Recreation Services.

The rec center offers several classes like Zuba, volleyball lessons and other activities that promote health. They will have classes at 50% capacity to maintain social distancing.

“Groups will be maintained to 10 or less and groups won’t merge with other groups so that we can maintain minimal contact,” Rouse said.

The decision to reopen was made after consulting with health officials, emergency managers and recreation staff.