Beverly's Cummings Center Gets Ready For Return Of Office Workers

BEVERLY, MA —Officials for Cummings Properties, which owns Beverly's Cumming Center, say they will be ready when workers for nonessential businesses return to work next week.

The business park has been closed to all but workers for so-called essential business since the March emergency order aimed at slowing the spread of the coronavirus. Under a four-phase reopening plan outlined by state officials Monday, offices outside of Boston can begin reopening at 25 percent capacity starting May 25.

"Our properties have remained open to essential businesses, with diligent cleaning and disinfection of our common areas, and we will continue to do so, among other safety measures," Stephen J. Drohosky, a vice president and general manager for Cummings properties, said. "With adherence to public health guidelines by our clients, staff, and visitors, together we can make a difference and help move business and the economy forward."

Don't miss updates about precautions in your area as they are announced. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters.

A memo sent to tenants Tuesday said they can expect at least twice daily cleanings, with high traffic areas being disinfected even more frequently. Many buildings will also have one-way stairwells to promote social distancing, and elevator use by more than one person will be discouraged. If someone does take an elevator with another person, they will be required to wear a face covering.

Cummings Properties is also increasing building exhaust fan run times, upgrading filters in HVAC units and encouraging clients to open windows whenever possible. Under state building codes, occupancy is limited to one person per 00 square feet. Under the 25 percent limit, a business with 5,000 square feet of space that could typically have 50 workers will be limited to 12 workers.

More Coronavirus Coverage On Massachusetts Patch:

• Record Unemployment Hits Some MA Communities Harder Than Others
• MA Small Business Hit Harder Than Most By Coronavirus Shutdown
• CVS Opens Coronavirus Testing Sites In 10 MA Towns
• Coronavirus Case Counts For Every Massachusetts Town (Updated May 13)

Dave Copeland writes for Patch and can be reached at dave.copeland@patch.com or by calling 617-433-7851. Follow him on Twitter (@CopeWrites) and Facebook (/copewrites).