Community

U of L’s 1st Choice Savings Centre for Sport & Wellness to reopen with limitations on July 13

As the University of Lethbridge works toward a gradual and safe reopening of its facilities, Horns Recreation is pleased to announce the 1st Choice Savings Centre will reopen on Monday, July 13 in a limited capacity.

“We look forward to welcoming our members back to our facilities,” says Bill Halma, director of Horns Recreation. “To ensure the health and safety of everyone involved, we will be operating in a much different manner.”

In the Fitness Centre, all of the weight machines have been spread out to allow for appropriate physical distancing. The spin bikes, rowers and ellipticals have been moved into PE 152 or up to the track. Benches will be spaced out in the free weight area and the stretching area will be marked to accommodate for physical distancing. In the Climbing Wall, all users will be required to wear a mask when climbing and physical distancing will be employed between ropes.

Applicable to the entire facility, each person will need to book a time slot in advance to allow for control of numbers in the Facility and allow for necessary cleaning between users. As well, users will need to come dressed for their respective activity as all locker and change rooms will remain closed.

Facilities to Reopen
Starting on Monday, July 13, the Fitness Centre, Climbing Wall, gymnasiums and indoor track will be available for limited use. For the month of July, access to the Centre for Sport & Wellness (CSW) will be through the south doors only. All users are asked to park in Lot G (no charge for parking).

Hours of Operation
Monday to Friday — 5:30 to 7 a.m.; 7:30 to 9 a.m.; 3:30 to 5 p.m.; 5:30 to 7 p.m.; 7:30 to 9 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday — 9:30 to 11 a.m.; 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.; 1:30 to 3 p.m.

These hours will be in effect for the month of July. Depending on feedback and usage, the hours may be expanded for August.

Procedures
Due to the limited availability of times and amenities, Horns Recreation is introducing a special COVID-19 price of $5 per drop-in visit or $75 for a punch pass of 20 visits, which will expire on Aug. 31. This pricing also applies to access the Stadium during open times.

Each space will have a maximum number of occupants at any given time. Anyone wanting to use any of the facilities in the CSW or the Stadium will need to book a day and time slot (90 minutes) in advance and online. Visit Drop-In Recreation Bookings to view and book your time.  If you require assistance to set up your online account, contact Horns Recreation at 403-329-2706.

Once they’ve completed their workout, members will need to leave the facility in a timely fashion to allow for cleaning. Time slots are spaced 30 minutes apart to allow the equipment to be sanitized.

Patrons are required to follow all directions and signage within the building and are asked to promptly exit the building at the completion of their activities.

Continuing Closures
The Max Bell Pool and locker rooms remain closed. The pool is undergoing normal annual maintenance. These facilities should be reopening in early August, depending on Alberta Health guidelines.

All memberships remain on hold until Sept. 1 when a further expanded and consistent schedule may be possible. Memberships will be reactivated at that time.