By Anthony Payero
(THE BRONX, N.Y.) Recreation and senior centers are back in business in the Bronx beginning Monday, according to News 12.
The Parks Department is reopening 13 recreation centers for members with new health and safety guidelines in place.
The centers are reopening with social distancing and mandatory use of face masks, according to News 12. The centers will not be open to maximum capacity.
Cleaning crews will maintain standards across all facilities, including the equipment available for use.
Seniors will also have the opportunity to gather at senior centers across the city.
According to Mayor Bill de Blasio, senior centers can reopen thanks to homebound vaccination efforts and low COVID-19 positivity rates.
He emphasized the importance of senior citizens getting together with others after the peak of the pandemic.
“So senior centers are coming back — they mean so much to so many members of our families,” the mayor said. “A positive place, a nurturing place, a place where people get fellowship and great food and activities and health care support, physical and mental health care support.”
De Blasio and health officials said they are thrilled about reopening, but ask everyone to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and continue to implement safety guidelines.