Last spring and summer, health officials worldwide were still learning how the COVID-19 virus was transmitted and which environments put individuals most at-risk of catching the disease.
After months of research, it was concluded that outdoor events, with adequate social distancing, posed a significantly lesser threat than staying indoors with others for extended periods of time.
In May of 2020, six months before a vaccine was made available to the public, Columbus city officials were put in a tough spot to make a call on whether or not the Donner Aquatics Center should open.
Officials erred on the side of caution, and opted to close the facility for the summer despite major pushback from the public.
Thankfully, much has changed since last spring, and the city has recognized that one of its most popular amenities can be used by families in a safe way this summer.
Last week, officials announced they plan on opening Donner on May 27, which is the first day of summer vacation for Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp. students.
At this time, a maximum of 250 people — including staff and clients — will be allowed in the pool area at any given time.
While Donner likely won’t reach its average of 31,800 visitors per year this summer, it will still see thousands pass through at one time or another.
The Indiana State Department of Health, as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, have maintained that there’s no evidence that COVID-19 can spread through pools — mainly because the chlorine/bromine in the water kills the virus.
Patrons will be asked to observe social distancing and encouraged to keep a mask on when socializing while out of the water. Deck furnishings will also be separated by 6 feet or more and frequently touched surfaces that don’t get hit with water will be sanitized.
We’re glad that local and state health officials are on board with reopening the pool, and that measures are being put in place to help limit any risk of spreading the virus.
The programs that Donner offers benefit local youth in a big way, and will make an impact on them starting again this summer.
