News

Offutt begins to loosen COVID-19 restrictions

  • Published
  • 55th Wing Public Affairs

Some of the restrictions implemented on Offutt AFB in March of this year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic will be relaxed beginning June 12.

The changes are the result of improvements in COVID-19 criteria established by the 55th Wing Commander in consultation with the Offutt Public Health Emergency Working Group, including having adequate hospital and testing capacity, improved divergence between new infections versus overall recovery and testing numbers, and a steady decrease in new infections.

Col. Gavin Marks, 55th Wing commander, announced the decision to the command and installation via email and a Facebook post.

“After consulting with our Public Health Emergency Officer, and PHEWG, I’m pleased to announce we are moving into the first phase of our COVID-19 transition plan, starting Friday, 4 p.m.,” Marks said.

The phased approach will allow the base to cautiously relax restrictions while continuing to monitor local COVID-19 criteria for any signs of a resurgence.

Beginning June 12 at 4 p.m., wing service members will be allowed to travel within the state of Nebraska or a 200-mile radius from the base. Restrictions for off-base activities will also be amended to align with city and state guidelines.

Beginning June 15, the Kenney gate will reopen and 55th Wing units will be allowed to bring back up to 50 percent of their personnel from teleworking. Additionally, the 55th Medical Group pediatric clinic will start school and sports physical for children entering kindergarten, 7th grade and 9th grade, or children who are new to their school districts.

Marks emphasized that the change in restrictions does not mean base personnel should relax in their efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“Even with this transition to Phase 1, we remain in a declared public health emergency, in Health Protection Condition Charlie, and there is no vaccine,” Marks said. “We must continue to maintain physical distance, continue and increase the frequency of hand washing and other sanitizing measures, and continue to wear masks in accordance with CDC and base policy.  My number one priority continues to be protecting Airmen and mission.”

If the COVID-19 criteria established by the PHEWG continues to improve, the base will move to Phase 2 reducing additional restrictions.

The following is a list of services and facilities that will reopen or expand services in Phase 1:

Satellite Pharmacy – Will open one week after Phase 1 is implemented

Ronald King DFAC - Expanded service lines (takeout only)

Civilian Personnel - Appointments only

Willow Lakes Golf Course - No golf carts, increased intervals between tee times, credit/debit cards only

Auto Hobby - Appointments only (Car Wash open)

Aero Club - Open to qualified pilots

Outdoor Recreation - Drive through service by appointment only

Equipment Rental - Drive through service by appointment only

 

Team Offutt members are encouraged to visit www.Offutt.AF.MIL/coronavirus for the latest Offutt COVID-19 information.