Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

JACKSON – Those wishing to visit the Northampton County Cultural and Wellness Center are able to do so again, according to a recent announcement from the county government.

The facility, which is home to the county’s recreation department, will implement new safety procedures for visitors due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Masks are required to enter the building, and 6-feet social distancing is required at all times.

Temperature checks will be required prior to entry into the building.

In the fitness room, no more than 10 people will be allowed inside at once. All equipment will be wiped down after use and periodically throughout the day. Only every other cardio station will be utilized.

Hand sanitizer dispensers will be placed in the fitness room and in other places throughout the building.

Located at 9536 NC Hwy 305, Jackson, the facility is open from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Fridays, and from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturdays.

The facility is often used as a site for special events and functions. According to Gov. Cooper’s announcement of Phase 3, which went into effect on Oct. 2, the mass gathering limits remain at 25 people indoors and 50 people outdoors. The Cultural and Wellness Center is open to host events of no more than 25 people.

Outside facilities, including the playground and walking trail, are open to the public.

Along with reopening to the public, the center will soon have a few new additions to the grounds. Recreation Director James Roberts announced at the Board of Commissioners meeting on Sept. 21 that the county’s Recreation and Cultural Arts Center Board is donating a new LED sign for the front entrance.

Roberts also presented bids at that meeting for new fencing to be added next to the walking trail by the woods after some citizens had voiced potential concerns about wildlife in the area. Though Roberts recommended the local company who provided a bid, after some discussion the commissioners ultimately approved the lowest bid at $3,387 from Seegars Fence. Roberts noted the recreation department had that funding ready in their budget.