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Richardson increases capacity levels to 50% at city recreation centers

Social distancing and other safety measures are still in place.

Updated at 9:46 p.m. June 10 with the increase to 50% capacity.

Richardson’s Heights and Huffhines recreation centers are boosting their capacity levels to 50%, the city has announced.

The move follows Gov. Greg Abbott’s announcement of Phase 3 of his plan for reopening businesses and services in across the state. Under the governor’s newest executive order, gyms and recreation center can operate at 50 percent capacity. Previous social distancing and health safety recommendations are still in effect.

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The most noticeable change will likely be the number of people allowed in the gymnasium, according to the city. The gym will be used for basketball, pickleball, badminton and single-file walking.

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Although building capacity has increased, the pieces of workout equipment that are available will remain the same. Workout machines must remain 6 feet apart due to social distancing and there is not enough space to add more machines, the city stated.

Patrons will be asked to limit their time to 50 minutes. It is also recommended that they wear full gloves and sanitize equipment prior to using it. Dumbbells must be placed in a sanitizing station for staff to clean prior to re-racking. Equipment such as basketballs, table tennis, pickleball or badminton paddles and balls will not be available for checkout. Patrons may, however, bring their own equipment.

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“We didn’t expect the influx, but it was still cool to see the people come in,” Heidi Scalice, manager of the Heights Recreation Center, said in a video when the centers opened at 25% capacity last month.

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Phase 3 allows lockers and showers to reopen, but they will remain closed until June 17, when the parks and recreation staff will complete plans for safety protocols. The lobby, sauna, showers, lockers, classrooms and classroom hallways are currently closed.

Other safety measures

  • Staff monitoring of facility and activities during each phase to make sure public is following the CDC and state guidelines.
  • Monitoring of fitness areas and cleaning equipment after each use.
  • Sanitation stations.
  • Floor markings to show appropriate social distancing.
  • Basketball is limited to two persons per goal. They must also maintaining social distancing and use their own equipment.

Facility hours

Heights Recreation Center, 711 W. Arapaho Road

Monday through Wednesday, Friday: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closed Thursday and Saturday

Huffhines Recreation Center, 200 N. Plano Road

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Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Closed Wednesday and Sunday

Because of the centers being closed due to COVID-19, memberships are being extended by 120 days. Additional information is available by calling 972-744-4300 or via email.

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