Water parks, libraries and museums: Here’s what’s reopening in Middle Georgia soon
After relaxing restrictions on most businesses near the end of April, Gov. Brian Kemp announced he was easing state COVID-19 regulations again Thursday night.
Middle Georgia restaurants, retail and service shops have returned to normal hours, while others remain closed or focused on curbside and delivery service.
This week, local water parks, the Middle Georgia Regional Libraries, Museum of Aviation and the Georgia National Fair have all recently announced plans to reopen. Here’s what we know:
Museum of Aviation
Robins Air Force Base’s Museum of Aviation (1942 Heritage Blvd. Robins AFB, GA) reopened June 17, according to a recent announcement. The museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday (closed Sunday through Tuesday).
The museum recommends (but does not require) attendees to wear masks, while asking for visitors to observe social distancing guidelines, wash their hands often and stay home if sick. The virtual reality ride will be open, and masks, hand sanitizer and bottled water will be available for purchase at the gift shop.
Middle Georgia Regional Libraries to reopen
Middle Georgia Regional Library’s physical locations in Bibb, Crawford, Jones, Twiggs and Wilkinson counties reopened on June 15. Macon County’s Ideal, Marshallville and Oglethorpe public libraries also reopened, with the Montezuma Public Library opening date still to be scheduled.
According to a press release, the library has enacted additional safety measures to protect its staff and community members:
- Returned books will continue to be quarantined for four days, plexiglass shields will be used at service points, and staff will use personal protective equipment.
- Computer use will be limited to two hour sessions, and the number of available computers will be reduced to allow for social distancing between users.
- Masks are encouraged for all visitors, but required for one-on-one appointments with staff. Seating will be limited, and extended visits are discouraged.
“Summer is usually the busiest time for libraries, so we’re happy to be able to safely open our doors to the community,” said Jennifer Lautzenheiser, Middle Georgia Regional Library’s director. “Visitors will notice some changes, but our first priority is always providing safe, high-quality library services to Middle Georgia.”
Bibb County’s Charles A. Lanford, MD Library; Riverside Library; and Shurling Library will reopen with normal hours while Washington Meomrial Library will open from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 15-19 before resuming normal hours on June 22. Jones, Macon, Twiggs, Wilkinson Counties will resume normal hours on June 15, according to the press release. Visit bibblib.org/locations for more information about operating hours.
Rigby’s Water World
Rigby’s Water World (2001 Karl Drive in Warner Robins) reopened June 12. The season will run through Sept. 27, and tickets can be purchased online. According to a post on its Facebook page, Rigby’s will adhere to all state guidelines, including lowered capacity, masks and gloves for concessions and guest services and sanitation of equipment throughout the day.
Georgia National Fair
The Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter will reopen on July 1, according to a press release. Events scheduled to start on July 1 or after will be held under guidelines from the state and the CDC, including:
- Social distancing
- Masks
- Sanitizing stations in arenas and barns
- Restrooms cleaned repeatedly throughout the day
The 2020 Georgia National Fair is slated to begin on Oct. 8 and run through Oct. 18 in Perry.
Sandy Beach Water Park at Lake Tobesofkee
Sandy Beach Water Park (6880 Mosley Dixon Road in Macon) opened June 12 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit the park’s Facebook page.
This story was originally published June 12, 2020 at 5:00 AM.
