ERJCC of Houston releases plan for gradually reopening facilities

The Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center of Houston released a plan May 11 outlining how it will reopen its facilities in phases over the next several weeks.

Under Step 2 of four, the ERJCC is undergoing staff training for a late May to early June reopening for some facilities, including outdoor tennis courts, the outdoor pool, the fitness center, and Bertha Alyce School and West Houston, according to the announcement, though these facilities would not immediately return to full hours or capacity, and the early childhood centers would open based solely on direction from government leaders.

The community center has also developed a communication plan and has engaged with its community regarding future plans amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Virtual programming will continue.

“Our staff have also developed comprehensive health and safety protocols based on the recommendations of the CDC and other health professionals as well as created staff training plans,” wrote Joel Dinkin, the community center’s chief executive officer, in the announcement.

Step 4 would see the center offer an alternative to the community center’s annual J Camps, called Summer Fun at the J, for children age 3 through fifth grade.

The fourth step also includes opening the community center’s Houston Gymnastics Center as well as Laykie’s Gourmet Cafe at the J, in addition to expanding the hours of operation for the fitness and tennis centers and the outdoor pool and reopening the indoor tennis center.

The time frames are subject to change depending on the COVID-19 situation, according to the announcement. A time frame for Step 4 has not been established.

Group exercises, basketball gym access, guest use of facilities, in-person senior programs, birthday parties and facility rentals will remain closed until further notice.