At a Monday, August 24, meeting with Phase 3 business owners, Mayor Joe Curtatone announced that, if the data continues to trend in the right direction, the city will consider a limited reopening for fitness centers, gyms, and indoor recreation facilities on approximately September 8. These businesses would be required to have an approved health and safety plan and meet stringent COVID-19 safety requirements. The requirements, which are designed to decrease the risk of virus transmission, include measures that exceed State standards such as mandatory face coverings for all staff and patrons at all times. Activities that pose a high risk for virus transmission and superspreader events would not be allowed to open in this phase.

On Monday, August 31, the city will confirm whether the September 8 reopening date will move forward. Detailed guidelines will also be shared on August 31. Affected business owners are invited to attend a live online update on Monday, August 31, at 1:00 p.m., and information will be posted to the public as well on www.somervillema.gov/CovidBiz. Register for the online update here.

In Somerville, indoor and outdoor gathering capacity limits also remain at stricter levels than the State with no more than 10 persons allowed until further notice, unless specifically permitted in city activity-specific guidelines. To provide safer options for gyms and fitness centers to offer services, the city is encouraging and supporting outdoor alternatives. 

Businesses in the State’s Phase 3 reopening include indoor venues and activities generally considered to be at high risk for viral spread such as performance venues, movie theaters, gyms, museums, and cultural centers. Phase 3 Health and Human Services categories opened in Somerville according to statewide plans on July 6. Phase 3 grocery store capacity limit increases also went into effect in tandem with the State on July 17. Regulations currently in place for Somerville youth and adult league sports remain the same.

For more information and regular COVID-19 updates, visit www.somervillema.gov/coronavirus and sign up for city alerts at www.somervillema.gov/Alerts. Community members are encouraged to sign up for every alert method: phone call, text, email. Also follow FB.com/SomervilleCity  and @SomervilleCity. 

Individuals with disabilities who need auxiliary aids and services for effective communication, written materials in alternative formats, or reasonable modifications in policies and procedures, in order to access the programs and activities of the City of Somerville or to attend meetings, should contact Nency Salamoun, at 617-625-6600 x2323 or NSalamoun@somervillema.gov.