The opening of the fitness area of the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center is on hold, due to legal action in the state of Michigan.
DEARBORN – The opening of the fitness area of the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center is on hold, due to legal action in the state of Michigan.
A court has temporarily halted the opening of all gyms across Michigan, per the request of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who said it is not prudent to allow gyms to operate until the spread of COIVD-19 is more under control. Further legal action is expected before the issue is resolved.
The city had announced on June 23 it would reopen the Ford Center fitness area in a modified configuration and with safety protocols in place on June 29.
Meanwhile, the neighborhood pool at Ten Eyck Park opened on June 24. The new outdoor pool at Ford Woods Park is expected to open soon, with the expectation it will be operating no later than early July.
The three free splash pads at Crowley, Hemlock and Whitmore-Bolles parks opened June 20, and Camp Dearborn opened on June 21 with modified camping and limited services.
In city parks, basketball courts, playgrounds, tennis courts, picnic shelters and comfort stations are now available. Walking paths never closed.
Details for anticipated opening of Ford Center
Once the Ford Center fitness area is allowed to reopen, its hours are expected to 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. weekdays, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
Masks will be required to enter and exit the building, and on the walking track above the gym, as well as in all public areas. Social distancing will be required.
The facility has been professionally sanitized. The fitness area will be cleaned periodically throughout the day. Patrons will be advised to wipe off their machines and weights before and after each use. Hand sanitizer will be available. Gloves are encouraged.
To accommodate social distancing, group exercise classes will be held in the Hubbard Ballroom, spinning classes will be in Studio A, and a large number of pieces of cardio equipment have been moved into the gym.
Remaining closed are the climbing wall, swimming pool, locker rooms, the theater, and conference rooms. The gym is not available for basketball.
The lobby restrooms across from the Service Desk will be open.
Ford Center members will be notified regarding adjustments of their fees.
Residents who are not members will be allowed to pay a daily entry fee to use the fitness area, as usual.
For more information about recreational facilities, call the Recreation Department service desk at 313-943-2350.