PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Due to changes in federal and state CDC guidelines, the University of Maine at Presque Isle is planning for the opening of several of its public spaces this summer, including Gentile Hall and the Center for Innovative Learning. These spaces have been closed to the public for more than a year.
The opening plan is in two phases. Starting June 1, campus — including the Campus Center, Gentile Hall (not including the pool), the first floor of the CIL, and the Houlton Higher Education Center — will open to the public. Starting July 1, the plan is to provide a further expansion of access, including the Gentile Hall pool for lap swim only — reservations will be required — and the second floor of the CIL.
Access to all campus properties will be given to members of the campus and public, provided that they are participating in weekly testing, can show proof of being completely vaccinated, or have a negative test within 72 hours of coming to campus or UMPI’s Houlton Center. Additionally, members of the public accessing Gentile Hall will need to have a Gentile Hall membership activated.
Health and safety protocols, including frequent cleaning and the wearing of face coverings while inside campus buildings (regardless of vaccination status), will continue. Face coverings are no longer required outside, and social distancing and capacity limits no longer need to be maintained indoors or outdoors on campus.
The June 1 opening of Gentile Hall means that patrons will be able to utilize the multipurpose gym, climbing wall, elevated track and exercise room. The pool will be open only to faculty, staff and students during the month of June, though use will be limited to lap swim only and reservations will be required. For questions about Gentile Hall, call Dick Gardiner, Director of Gentile Hall, at 207-768-9771.
Public access to the first floor of the CIL allows patrons to utilize computers, study areas, and library services. For information about the CIL, please call Roger Getz, Director of Library Services, at 207-768-9595. In addition, public access to the Campus Center will be allowed, though by request or permission only. Those interested in utilizing this space should contact Lydia Kieffer-Till, Campus Center director, at 207-768-9502 for more information.
The expansion of access on July 1 will allow Gentile Hall patrons to use the pool for lap swim only; reservations will be required. In addition, members of the campus and public utilizing the CIL will have access to the second floor of the building, including the Reed Art Gallery. In the Campus Center, community groups will once again be able to host events in conference spaces; these activities will be closely overseen by the Conferences and Special Programs office.
Work is underway to prepare these campus spaces for opening.
