Overcrowded pool at off-campus student housing near UNC raises concerns about a safe semester
Photos of an overcrowded pool full of residents, who are not practicing safe social distancing or wearing makes, are raising concerns about COVID-19 safety during the school semester.
Posted — UpdatedWalking down Franklin Street on an average day in Chapel Hill, most residents are seen wearing masks and practicing social distancing.
However, residents at the Union Chapel Hill Apartments, which serve as off-campus student housing, said it was a different story over the weekend.
Apartment residents said the overcrowding at the pool started when UNC students began moving in last week.
A photo taken from one resident’s apartment on Saturday showed people clustered in the pool, swimming shoulder-to-shoulder – and a distinct lack of masks.
The incident has left Chapel Hill residents nervous about the potential spread of COVID-19 in their community, particularly during the fall semester.
In response, officials from the complex have implemented new changes that take effect on Thursday.
With complaints piling up, Union Chapel Hill is now limiting the number of people in the pool area to 80, allowing 40 in the pool and 40 on the pool deck.
Everyone must wear a mask.
In an email to residents Wednesday, the complex wrote, “The town and health department are giving us one chance to make sure we are doing everything we can as a community to comply and slow the potential spread of COVID-19."
The complex has been advised that the health department will be making surprise visits to the property to personally observe the efforts and compliance of residents.
“I think they’re really listening to what we need and that’s nice," said Shah.
Students are hoping their peers listen.
"Just to stay six feet apart and wear your masks and watch out for other people who may or may not have friends or family members who are high risk," said Shah.
UNC officials would not disclose the total number of students removed from on-campus housing so far.
Related Topics
• Credits
Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.