Saturday
July 27, 2024 
With Bucks County unlikely to emerge from the state’s shutdown rule anytime soon, Perkasie will push back the opening of the Menlo Aquatic Center from Memorial Day weekend to at least July 1.
A meeting with the state Department of Health on Friday will determine if even that date is feasible and what types of protective measures will need to be in place before opening, borough officials said Monday night during a Zoom meeting.
“I’ve been in contact with other pool directors,” said Megan Prusienski, the borough’s parks and recreation director. “Hopefully, we’ll be able to open, even if it is for a shortened season.”
The biggest issue, if the pool does open, will be social distancing within the common areas where people congregate when they are not in the water, said Prusienski.
Possible solutions include limiting the number of patrons who can be in the facility at any one time so they can be properly spaced out. Members could also be assigned time slots when they can enter the facility.
“It’s going to be a challenge,” said Councilman Matt Aigeldinger. “It will be a radical departure from what we have become used to.”
In the meantime, the borough will refund about $48,000 in membership fees to people who have already paid for the 2020 season.
“This will get money back in the hands of people during this time of need,” said Councilman Chuck Brooks.
If and when an opening date is announced – possibly at council’s next meeting on May 18 – a new fee schedule will be announced that reflects the reduced access, said Brooks.
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