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MOUNT VERNON REOPENING PLAN
Updated June 23, 2020
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June 23, 2020 Mount Vernon Reopening Plan v10
REOPENING PLAN CHANGELOG
Added Tuesday, June 23 2020
o Donald W. Reynolds Museum & Education Center Occupancies – pg. 8
CONTENTS
Reopening Plan Changelog ........................................................................................................................... 1
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 3
Summary ....................................................................................................................................................... 3
Three-Level Reopening Outline .................................................................................................................... 4
Mount Vernon Staff Training ........................................................................................................................ 5
Social Distancing ....................................................................................................................................... 5
Face Coverings .......................................................................................................................................... 5
Frequent and Proper Hand Washing ........................................................................................................ 5
Cough and Sneeze Etiquette ..................................................................................................................... 5
Proper Use of Gloves ................................................................................................................................ 5
Protocol for Reporting a Staff Illness ........................................................................................................ 5
Protocol for Ill Guests ............................................................................................................................... 5
Well Checks ............................................................................................................................................... 6
Welcoming Our Guests ............................................................................................................................. 6
Level I: Plan of Action .................................................................................................................................... 7
Staff Mitigation Measures ........................................................................................................................ 7
Operational Mitigation Measures ............................................................................................................. 7
Enhanced Cleaning Protocol ..................................................................................................................... 9
Bag Policy Modifications ......................................................................................................................... 10
Historic Area Modifications .................................................................................................................... 11
Food & Beverage Modifications .............................................................................................................. 11
Retail Modifications ................................................................................................................................ 12
Supervisor Responsibilities & Support ........................................................................................................ 12
Level II: Adjustments & Additions ............................................................................................................... 13
Mitigation Measures ............................................................................................................................... 13
Operational Mitigation Measures ........................................................................................................... 13
Enhanced Cleaning Protocol ................................................................................................................... 14
Mansion Tour Modifications ................................................................................................................... 14
Potential Reopening of Additional Estate Spaces ................................................................................... 15
Food & Beverage Adaptations ................................................................................................................ 15
Retail Modifications ................................................................................................................................ 15
Level III: Finding a New Normal .................................................................................................................. 16
Staff Measures ........................................................................................................................................ 16
Resuming Operations .............................................................................................................................. 16
Bag Policy ................................................................................................................................................ 16
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June 23, 2020 Mount Vernon Reopening Plan v10
Estate Spaces .......................................................................................................................................... 17
Food & Beverage / Retail ........................................................................................................................ 17
Mount Vernon Communications ................................................................................................................ 18
Public Health & Contact Tracing ............................................................................................................. 18
Guests ..................................................................................................................................................... 18
Staff ......................................................................................................................................................... 18
Human Resources ....................................................................................................................................... 19
MVLA Volunteers .................................................................................................................................... 19
Reporting Staff Illness, Exposure & High Risk ......................................................................................... 19
Positive Covid-19 Diagnosis & Contact Tracing ...................................................................................... 20
Staff Temperature Checks ....................................................................................................................... 20
Temporary Telework Policy .................................................................................................................... 20
Expanded Employee Assistance Program ............................................................................................... 21
Appendix A – Three-Level Opening ............................................................................................................. 22
Appendix B – Number of Telework Staff in Level I ..................................................................................... 23
Appendix c – Complete List of Estate Spaces for Enhanced Cleaning ........................................................ 24
Appendix D – Locations & Listing for Hand Sanitizer Stations / Health Signage ....................................... 25
Appendix E – Hand Sanitizer Station Locations .......................................................................................... 31
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June 23, 2020 Mount Vernon Reopening Plan v10
INTRODUCTION
George Washington’s Mount Vernon is owned and maintained for the public by the Mount Vernon Ladies'
Association, a private, non-profit 501(c)3 founded in 1853 by Ann Pamela Cunningham. As the most visited
historic home in America, the health and safety of Mount Vernon staff and its guests, then and now,
remains our top priority. While the reopening date of the estate is currently unknown1, the MVLA Board
in concert with leadership will conduct a careful decision-making process to determine a date that is legal,
realistic and appropriately safe. We recognize now, more than ever, that leadership requires fortitude and
prudence through the uncertain and challenging times created by COVID-19.
SUMMARY
This document presents a multi-level plan for the reopening of George Washington’s Mount Vernon to
ensure that we undertake every effort to safeguard the health and safety of Mount Vernon staff and
guests. Presented are recommendations and modifications made in accordance with guidance from the
Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Governor of Virginia, Virginia Department of Health (VDH), Fairfax
County Health Department (FCHD) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Likewise,
numerous cultural institutions across the country have begun to embrace and adopt many of the
recommendations presented in this plan. As information and data continue to become available, we will
update this document accordingly.
In April of 2020, at the behest of the Board, the President & CEO formed a Reopening Task Force to devise
a blueprint that would outline how the estate will reopen in the midst of a global pandemic, diminished
economy and society that is longing for social and cultural engagement. The task force is comprised of
representation from Historic Preservation & Collections, Education & Guest Services, Operations &
Maintenance, Media & Communications, Washington Library, Security, Food & Beverage, and Retail. We
resolve to ensure proper operational measures are in place to allow the estate to reopen safely and to
develop flexible plans that maintain safety and support our educational mission. Each member of the task
force conducted a review of all departmental work on the estate and presented modified operational
plans to mitigate risk.
Our Media & Communications team conducted a survey of Mount Vernon members and supporters in
late April. Of the 4,981 people that responded, hand sanitizer, constant cleaning, set capacities to limit
crowd sizes and signage for hygiene etiquette were top priorities. We have listened and incorporated
these measures in our plans for the reopening of the estate.
Finally, to ensure we consider all safety options for reopening, we conducted risk assessments for each
department on the estate using the Johns Hopkins Operational Toolkit for Businesses Considering
Reopening or Expanding Operations in COVID-19 as well as OSHA’s Guidance on Preparing Workspaces
for COVID-19. By assessing our operations and adapting our work to follow appropriate mitigation
techniques, we allow our leadership, education, K12 and youth and library programs to emulate the
procedures we have established for guest visitation and provide their custom groups with consistent
uniformity for safety.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon is a large and complex estate with a variety of operational intricacies.
These recommendations and modifications aim to mitigate risk and allow George Washington’s Mount
Vernon to remain open and a place of respite and inspiration.
1 President Doug Bradburn announced on June 15 that George Washington’s Mount Vernon would reopen to the public on Sunday, June 21, 2020.
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THREE-LEVEL REOPENING OUTLINE
A three-level plan for the reopening of George Washington’s Mount Vernon allows the estate to reopen
cautiously, taking into account institutional financial considerations, and provide Mount Vernon staff
opportunity to acclimate and make necessary adjustments to operations and programming once put into
practice.
Level I presents opening the estate with a focus on the outdoor experience; guests will have the
opportunity to experience the Historic Area, including the east lawn, historic gardens, 18th-century
outbuildings, Tomb, as well as the Pioneer Farm. The Mount Vernon Inn food truck will station on the 12-
acre field to offer food options for guests and the restaurant will continue to offer curbside pickup.
Entry and exit buildings will be open but the Mansion, all theaters, small indoor spaces, the Donald W.
Reynolds Museum & Education Center, the Washington Library, the General’s Store, Lady Washington
Shop, Gristmill Shop and the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant will be closed. This initial opening period is
important because it will allow MVLA leadership and staff to focus on safe guest entry and exit, observe
guest experiences and refine cleaning protocol to demonstrate to guests our commitment to cleanliness.
Mount Vernon administrative buildings and the Washington Library will remain largely closed with
exceptions made by MVLA leadership on a case-by-case basis.
Level II consists of gradual add-ons to estate operations, and, based on demand, modified tours of the
Mansion, limited visitation of the Museum & Education Center, limited programming at the Washington
Library, and potential increase in food operations and retail. Entry into this level will also signal a review
by MVLA leadership, in conjunction with current guidance by the CDC, the Governor of Virginia and open
the administrative buildings and the Washington Library allowing for shift work and limited staff in
workspaces.
Level III is the final level to reopen all public and administrative spaces and resume regular operations.
Leadership will determine entry into this level by taking into account the following: guidance from the
CDC, the Governor of Virginia, VDH and FCHD, demand and guest attendance, and staffing support. Level
III will most likely still require mitigation protocols but in a less restrictive manner than in Levels I and II.
The timing of each level will be determined in accordance with the FCHD officials and as directed by MVLA
leadership. During and throughout each level, adjustments, modifications and changes can be made as
new information is provided and following approval by MVLA leadership.
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MOUNT VERNON STAFF TRAINING
Protecting the health and well-being of Mount Vernon’s staff is our highest priority. Before reopening the
estate, our staff will receive up-to-date health guidance and training on mitigating risks for themselves,
their colleagues, and our guests. All staff will receive a PowerPoint presentation that they will be required
to review before the estate reopens. This presentation will include the following information (subject to
change as information becomes available):
SOCIAL DISTANCING
Safety protocols recommend keeping a distance of at least six feet from the nearest person at all times.
As this is not always possible, we will provide guidance to assist staff in abiding by these standards.
FACE COVERINGS
Mount Vernon will provide staff with face coverings upon return to work. Guest-facing staff must wear
face coverings while interacting with guests at all times, and non-guest facing staff will be required to
wear face coverings. Staff may remove face coverings when alone in his or her workspace. Staff whose
health or safety is put at risk by wearing a mask or cloth face covering are not required to do so. If this
applies to you, please contact Human Resources at [email protected]
Staff will be instructed to follow a hygienic protocol for donning face coverings that will include washing
hands, putting on face covering, avoiding touching of face, removing face covering by the straps, and
washing hands and cloth face coverings frequently.
FREQUENT AND PROPER HAND WASHING
Washing hands is one of the most effective ways to combat the spread of any illness. Staff will be shown
proper hand washing techniques. Staff should wash their hands before and after each shift and break,
after using the restroom, sneezing, blowing their nose, cleaning surfaces, eating, or drinking. When hand
washing is not available, staff should use hand sanitizer to be found in various locations.
COUGH AND SNEEZE ETIQUETTE
Staff should cover their cough or sneeze with a tissue, elbow or shoulder, followed by proper hand
washing.
PROPER USE OF GLOVES
Staff may wear vinyl or nitrile gloves, as they deem necessary, when performing their specific work on
the estate. Staff should never use gloves as substitute for hand washing. The training presentation will
review how to properly remove gloves from hands, and conclude with hand washing.
PROTOCOL FOR REPORTING A STAFF ILLNESS
If a staff member feels ill and presents symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or lives with someone who is
presenting or been diagnosed with COVID-19, they should immediately contact their supervisor or Human
Resources. Additional information on reporting a staff illness can be found here.
PROTOCOL FOR ILL GUESTS
If a guest becomes ill, staff should follow normal protocol of contacting a first responder. The first
responder on the scene will be in charge. Staff should review Annex D of the Mount Vernon Emergency
Operations Plan, which can also be found on the Mount Vernon intranet.
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WELL CHECKS
Regardless if Mount Vernon mandates staff temperature checks at any point upon or after reopening,
staff should be keenly aware of their own health and status, paying attention to any symptoms that may
present, before coming to work each day. Awareness and self-care is vital during this unprecedented and
stressful time.
WELCOMING OUR GUESTS
Mount Vernon staff should put a friendly face on health and safety rules and encourage compliance by
modeling good behavior. We will take the time to answer all staff questions and ensure staff fully
understand our safety procedures so that they in turn can answer all guest questions and project
confidence and poise.
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LEVEL I: PLAN OF ACTION
STAFF MITIGATION MEASURES
Staff will be required to complete the training presentation and practice all health protocols and
procedures as listed above whether they are work in guest-facing public buildings, an
administrative building or the Washington Library. Upon reopening, any staff that can telework
should do so and not return to their workspace on the estate.
Staff who cannot telework by nature of their job but are in the vulnerable populations (as defined
by the CDC) should contact Human Resources for further information.
No in-person meetings will take place in conference rooms on the estate; all meetings take place
via phone or video conference.
The Melody Sawyer Richardson Fitness Center on the lower level of the APC Building will be closed
until further notice. Designated staff for uniform and/or costume changing will use the gym
restrooms.
Supervisors will enforce social distancing in suites/offices, research spaces and staff break
spaces; staff should not congregate together and breaks must be staggered. Closed theaters and
indoor spaces may be used as additional break spaces to allow for social distancing:
o Guest Services will utilize the OC back hall breakroom and picnic tables outside the
Group Sales doors.
o History Interpretation will utilize the Interpreters Lounge, the Interpretive Center and
the APC/Bolton staff breakroom.
o Character Interpretation will utilize the APC/Bolton staff breakroom.
o Historic Trades will utilize the Trades breakroom and additional space in the Carpenter’s
Shop.
o The Shops will utilize the MVIC breakroom.
All administrative buildings and the Washington Library will remain largely closed to staff, with
exceptions made by the President & CEO on a case-by-case basis.
OPERATIONAL MITIGATION MEASURES
All Mount Vernon staff will wear face coverings when interacting with guests indoors and moving
from point to point across the estate. Interpretive staff, with the use of rope lines and stanchions,
may present to guests without a face covering as long as a social distance of six or more feet is
established.
Employees who health or safety is put at risk by wearing a mask or cloth face covering are not
required to do so, and should contact Human Resources at [email protected].
All outside contractors and vendors must be accompanied by Mount Vernon staff and adhere to
Mount Vernon staff safety and health protocols.
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June 23, 2020 Mount Vernon Reopening Plan v10
We require that all guests wear face coverings upon arrival at the estate. Adults accompanying
minors should use the adult’s best judgment with respect to placing face coverings on a minor
between the ages of two and nine. Adults accompanying minors between the ages of ten and
eighteen should make reasonable efforts to prompt the minor to wear face coverings. Exceptions
may be made for guests with medical and sensory issues. If guests are maintaining social distance
while exploring the grounds, masks are not required. However, we do require that they be worn
indoors and in spaces where social distancing cannot be maintained.
Purchase of online tickets will be encouraged and promoted by Media & Communications. One
ticket window will be open for walk up purchases; cashiers will encourage use of contactless
payment methods and credit cards. We will ask all ticket purchasers for their email address for
contact tracing purposes.
Guest Services staff will implement paced entry into the estate, beginning outside the Texas Gate,
to promote social distancing and prevent crowding in indoor spaces.
Per the orders of the Governor in Virginia Forward Phase 2 Guidelines2, building occupancy cannot
exceed fifty (50%) percent. For indoor spaces open in Level I and II, the occupancies are as follows:
o Ford Orientation Center: 243 people
o Donald W. Reynolds Museum & Education Center Lobby: 102 people
o Education Center Exit Area: 16 people
o Vaughan Lobby: 100 people
o The Shops – West: 60 people
o The Shops – East: 60 people
o Donald W. Reynolds Education Center – 350 people
o Donald W. Reynolds Museum:
Houdon Gallery – 12 people
Taubman Gallery – 20 people
Mars Gallery – 8 people
Skaggs Gallery – 7 people
Scott Gallery – 32 people
2 Northern Virginia entered Phase 2 of the Governor’s Virginia Forward Plan on Friday, June 12, 2020 and will continue in that phase when George Washington’s Mount Vernon opens on Sunday, June 21, 2020.
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Gilder Lehrman Gallery – 21 people
Kirby Gallery – 40 people
Operations & Maintenance will strategically place hand sanitizers throughout the estate for staff
and public use.
Where appropriate, we will install shield barriers in transactional spaces.
We will install signage and floor graphics in buildings and spaces on the estate to promote social
distancing and hygiene etiquette. Signage will have strong, clear iconography to accommodate
people with different language skills.
Operations & Maintenance will conduct an enhanced cleaning schedule of public spaces and focus
on high-traffic areas. In addition, staff will take on increased responsibility of keeping their
workspaces and areas of work clean and disinfected.
Water fountains will have signage reminding guests not to touch the tap with their mouth or the
mouth of their water bottle and to sanitize their hands after use.
Operations & Maintenance will replace all HVAC filters on the estate before reopening to ensure
indoor spaces are ventilating at an optimal level.
We will close all indoor theaters. This includes the Robert H. & Clarice Smith Theater, the Eagles
Theater, the Robert H. & Clarice Smith Auditorium, Rev War Theater, Romance Theater, Be
Washington and the historic area Interpretive Center.
We will reduce our shuttle bus service significantly; one bus will operate from the EC turnaround
to the Wharf and Pioneer Farm to transport guests, including those with mobility issues. No more
than eight guests may ride in the shuttle bus at once to allow for social distancing. Shuttle bus
drivers will wear protective gear and disinfect high touch areas on the shuttle bus in-between
transports and throughout the day.
Guest entry and exit will be one-way on the estate. Guests may still enter through the double
glass doors of the MVIC to go to the Shops and Food Court, but two-way traffic will cease in the
serpentine hallway connecting the Mount Vernon Inn Complex to the Donald W Reynolds
Museum & Education Center. That will be an exit-only path.
The Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant, the Food Court Pavilion, the General’s Store, the Lady
Washington Shop, and the Gristmill Shop will be closed.
ENHANCED CLEANING PROTOCOL
Focus and intensified cleaning will take place in the following high-traffic areas of the estate and will
adhere to CDC cleaning protocol. A complete list covering all three levels can be referenced here.
Texas Gate
Entrance handrail
Ford Orientation Center
Ticketing offices
Ford Orientation Center restrooms
Ford Orientation Center breakroom and restroom
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Entrance and exit doors
Brochure rack
Handrails for stairs and ramp
Information desk counter
OC brick pathway handrail (OC exit doors to Crossroads)
OC outside seating area
Ann Pamela Cunningham (APC) Building
Main level doors
Restrooms
Elevator
Reception desk counter
Copy and Mail Room
Historic Area
Crossroads handrail
North Lane restrooms
Pioneer Farmer restrooms
Piazza chairs
Drinking fountains
Donald W. Reynolds Museum & Education Center
EC brick pathway handrail (Crossroads to EC entrance doors)
Entrance and exit doors
Elevator
Handrails for stairs
Mount Vernon Inn Complex
Front and side doors
Vaughan Lobby restrooms
Vaughan Lobby benches
BAG POLICY MODIFICATIONS
In order to promote safety among staff and guests, we recommend a change to our bag policy to adopt
similar measures currently taken in sporting stadiums and other large venues. Guests will receive
advanced communication and see signage in the parking lots notifying them of this requirement. Guest
Services will provide plastic bags to guests who do not have them. Below is a sample of the messaging.
For the safety of all guests, staff, and volunteers, as well as the preservation of this historic property,
please note our bag policy:
Bags must be clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and may not exceed 16" x 16" x 8" OR
One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar)
Small clutch bags, 4.5" x 6.5", with or without a handle or strap
Exceptions for medically necessary items as well as items for infants and small children after
inspection by a Mount Vernon staff person upon entry.
When a bag exception is made, the guest will be asked to empty its contents on a bag check table for
inspection by Guest Services staff and then return all items into their bag. Guests will be asked to dispose
any prohibited items. This process will keep Guest Services staff from having to directly touch items. When
the guest has placed all items back into their bag, Guest Services staff will disinfect the tabletop.
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HISTORIC AREA MODIFICATIONS
All staff that work in the historic area will wear face coverings when moving about and practice
social distancing.
History Interpretation will offer outdoor specialty and private tours that remain outside and
allow for social distancing.
Character interpretation will perform in set outdoor spaces with rope lines to allow for social
distancing.
Historic Trades will staff the Blacksmith Shop (Wednesdays – Sundays only) with entrance
barriers to allow for social distancing. They will also staff Pioneer Farm (Wednesdays – Sundays
only) with minimal staff. When staffed, outdoor Pioneer Farm demonstrations will have set rope
lines to allow for social distancing, and indoor spaces such as the Treading Barn and Slave Cabin,
will be closed.
The Mansion will remain closed during Level I. Outbuildings that do not require guests to step
inside will be open for viewing.
Visiting Washington’s Tomb and the Slave Memorial and Cemetery:
o We will install social distancing signage in the approach to and around Washington’s
Tomb and the Slave Memorial and Cemetery;
o All chain barriers will be down with the gates locked in front;
o Staff will have barriers in place around the guard shack that allows for safe standing at a
distance;
o There will be no wreath-laying ceremonies at Washington’s Tomb or the Slave
Memorial.
FOOD & BEVERAGE MODIFICATIONS
The Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant and Food Court Pavilion are not open in Level I.
The Mount Vernon food truck, Executive Orders, will station on the 12-acre field for food services.
o There will be two food lines with 20x20 tents to allow for social distancing;
o Social distancing signage will be installed around the ordering area;
o Plexiglass barriers installed at ordering points;
o Mount Vernon Inn staff will wear masks and follow all health code regulations as set by
Fairfax County Health Department;
o Guests will receive food only in closed containers.
o Guest may eat on the 12-acre field; we will provide limited seating. We will install rope
lines around the perimeter and install “No food or beverage beyond this point” signage.
Online ordering will continue to be conducted allowing guests to pick up curbside or eat outside
The Shops.
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RETAIL MODIFICATIONS
In Level I, The Shops in the Mount Vernon Inn Complex are open and the General’s Store, Lady
Washington Shop and Gristmill Shop are closed.
Retail will set up one-way traffic routes in and out of the East and West Shops in the Mount Vernon
Inn Complex. To direct guests and allow for social distancing, we will install shield barriers at
transaction spaces, signage and floor graphics. There are fifteen registers in The Shops however,
three registers will operate in East Shop and three registers will operate in the West Shops. The
rest will remain closed.
Retail staff will wear face coverings and enforce social distancing inside the Shops; Mount Vernon
Security will monitor traffic flow outside the Shops in the Vaughan Lobby area, and guests will be
required to wear face coverings throughout the Mount Vernon Inn Complex.
SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES & SUPPORT
We rely on Mount Vernon supervisors help enforce staff health and safety protocols, advocate for staff
and provide assistance in making sure operational mitigation measures remain in place and functioning
throughout each level.
Supervisors should use the following contacts for reporting supply needs or feedback. (Please encourage
staff to notify Supervisors of these needs).
Hand sanitizer stations that may be broken or low/empty of sanitizer or low cleaning supplies:
email [email protected]
Social Distancing signage is damaged or missing, please email
Supervisors should ensure hygiene etiquette and social distancing signage is posted and remains up in
staff break rooms and other staff common areas. If the supervisor notices the signage is not posted,
s/he can access these documents on the intranet for installation.
Supervisors should always encourage staff to make their safety a top priority. In doing so, if a staff
member encounters a guest that will not comply with Mount Vernon’s guest requirements, the staff
person should politely ask the guest to comply. If the guest responds in a belligerent or disruptive
matter, the staff person should walk away from the guest and request a security officer. While waiting
for a security officer to respond, staff should remain away from the disruptive guest and maintain his or
her own safety.
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June 23, 2020 Mount Vernon Reopening Plan v10
LEVEL II: ADJUSTMENTS & ADDITIONS
MITIGATION MEASURES
Telework will continue. However, once in Level II and at a time approved by the MVLA leadership,
managers/supervisors can devise shift schedules or similar plans to allow staff into workspaces
while enforcing social distancing and remaining in accordance with group gathering limitations as
set by the Governor of Virginia. Managers/supervisors dictate the schedule of staff that telework
and work on the estate.
Disinfectant materials will be provided (to the extent possible) for staff to wipe down door knobs,
tables and other common area spaces and shared equipment after use. Departmental staff should
ensure wipes and other materials are available for use. Operations & Maintenance will perform
enhanced cleaning of high traffic areas in staff administrative buildings and the Washington
Library.
• The majority of meetings will be by phone or video conference. Gatherings in large conference
rooms take place only when necessary, adhering to the group gathering limits as set by Governor
of Virginia and allowing for social distancing. FCHD guideline signage will be posted outside each
conference room.
• As staffing in administrative buildings, the Washington Library and other spaces increases as
directed, staff will continue to strictly adhere to the staff-required health protocols and
procedures unless otherwise notified. Managers/supervisors will enforce policies and
communicate any changes in health protocol to staff.
• Staff should take every measure to minimize any in-person meetings with outside vendors,
partner organizations and potential clients. However, this will be unavoidable at times. The Office
of the President must first approve all requests for outside entry into the estate until otherwise
notified. Staff must send requests to the Senior Executive Assistant who will provide Security an
approved list for entry into the estate or Washington Library.
OPERATIONAL MITIGATION MEASURES
All measures as listed in Level I continue with the following additional adjustments below:
The Wharf will reopen when tour boats begin operating again. As operations for safe guest entry
into the estate are firmly established, Guest Services will transpose those plans and techniques to
allow for social distancing at the Wharf when boarding and de-boarding.
Shuttle bus service may increase if tour boats begin operating again and visiting Mount Vernon’s
Wharf. The shuttle bus will continue with limited seating to allow for social distancing. Shuttle bus
drivers will continue to wear protective gear and disinfect high touch areas on the shuttle bus in-
between transports and throughout the day.
Outside contractors and vendors must be accompanied by Mount Vernon staff and adhere to
Mount Vernon staff safety and health protocols.
Guest Services and Security leadership will conduct a review to determine if one-way guest entry
and exit will continue on the estate.
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ENHANCED CLEANING PROTOCOL
Focus and intensified cleaning will continue to take place in areas listed in Level I with the addition of the
following:
Museum & Education Center
Museum & Education Center galleries (when approved for reopening)
Washington Library
Conference rooms Restrooms Copy and mail rooms Hand railings and doorknobs throughout building
MANSION TOUR MODIFICATIONS
All historic area modifications as listed in Level I will continue. Education & Guest Services
leadership will review all interpretive programming conducted within the operational framework
from Level I and make all determinations for changes and/or additions.
Mansion capacities will be set to ensure social distancing inside the Mansion as well as maintain
maximum group size gatherings as required by the Governor of Virginia.
Only the first floor of the Mansion is open for touring. The upper floors and cellar will remain
closed.
These interior accommodations will be made for restricting contact with building elements:
o Place stanchions in central passage to keep visitors from walls except at principal
doorways;
o Extend tour path in study to move visitors away from fireplace wall.
Doors will remain open in the Mansion (weather permitting) to limit contact with surfaces.
To remain complaint with ADA, guests will exit on the Piazza side of the Mansion. History
Interpretation will open the north and south doors of the Kitchen and keep the east door closed
and locked. This will allow guests to view and self-explore the unstaffed Kitchen.
Piazza chairs may be adjusted in position and setup to decrease touching and provide space for
social distancing.
History Interpreters will be posted on the East Lawn to provide interpretation of the upper floors
during limited access tour period.
Collections Management and Architecture staff will perform enhanced cleaning in the in Mansion
twice a day, each for a one-hour period. They will also perform an enhanced cleaning of the
outbuildings every other day. The following Mansion spaces will be targeted for enhanced
cleaning:
o Interior or exterior doorknobs of all exterior doors;
o Edges of doors to New Room and east central passage doorway;
o Door architraves along visitor path, from knee to head height;
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June 23, 2020 Mount Vernon Reopening Plan v10
o Walls and doors of east and west vestibules;
o Plexiglass stanchions (to be cleaned by interpreter with plexi cleaner)
In addition to social distancing signage in and around the estate, there will be signage near the
Mansion notifying guests of the enhanced Mansion cleaning schedule.
POTENTIAL REOPENING OF ADDITIONAL ESTATE SPACES
Education & Guest Services, Finance and Historic Preservation & Collections leadership will analyze
attendance as well as staffing capability to determine if the Donald W. Reynolds Museum & Education
Center and George Washington’s Distillery & Gristmill reopen. Entry into Level II is the earliest time these
two spaces may open but pending review, they could reopen later. MVLA leadership will approve all
recommendations.
The Donald W. Reynolds Museum & Education Center will initially require staff to help manage
the flow and limit the number of guests in and out the Museum and the Education Center. Guest
Services staff will help to operate the Museum doors so guests avoid touching the handles and
will frequently disinfect the Museum entrance door handles and the Education Center exit door
handles. When possible, the Education Center exit doors can be propped open.
All interactives in the Education Center will remain off. If Mount Vernon begins to provide styluses
to guests, Education & Guest Services leadership will review and make a recommendation
regarding interactives remaining on or off in the Education Center.
Education & Guest Services leadership will review staffing needs in order to open and allow for
social distancing in Hands-on-History, the Romance Theater, the Rev War Theater and Be
Washington and include in their recommendation.
George Washington’s Distillery & Gristmill will reopen with a focus on outside demonstration and
strictly limiting the number of people to tour the buildings at any given time.
FOOD & BEVERAGE ADAPTATIONS
Finance will analyze attendance and consult with the Director of Food & Beverage to determine the
reopening timeline of the Food Court Pavilion. . The Board in concert with MVLA leadership will approve
all recommendations.
Current considerations for modifications upon a reopening include:
All food in closed containers;
Food line setup to allow for social distancing;
Self-checkout kiosks;
Hand sanitizer stations and hygiene etiquette signage.
The Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant will remain closed pending a review by the MVLA leadership, Finance,
the Director of Food & Beverage and guidance from Fairfax County Health Department.
RETAIL MODIFICATIONS
Finance will analyze attendance and consult with the Director of Retail to determine if the General’s Store,
the Lady Washington Shop or the Gristmill Shop will reopen in Level II or Level III. MVLA leadership will
approve all recommendations.
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LEVEL III: FINDING A NEW NORMAL
STAFF MEASURES
Upon entering Level III, we will provide all staff an update on current health protocols and
procedures as guided by the CDC, the Governor of Virginia, VDH and FCHD. While we do not know
what health protocols will be in the future, we should remain prepared and ready for Level III to
include some form of social distancing, face coverings, frequent hand washing and hygiene
etiquette.
Telework will end and all staff return to their workspaces on the estate.
In-person meetings on the estate resume and, if required, should allow for relaxed social
distancing.
RESUMING OPERATIONS
Upon review of CDC, the Governor of Virginia, VDH and FCHD guidance, the Board in concert
with MVLA leadership will make a determination as to whether or not staff will continue to wear
face coverings when interacting with guests, as well as if face coverings are optional for guests.
As guest attendance demands, ticket windows will resume regular operations.
Guest Services staff will continue to pace entry and promote social distancing to the extent
directed by the CDC, the Governor of Virginia, VDH and FCHD.
Operations & Maintenance will keep hand sanitizers in place throughout the estate for staff and
public use.
Using current guidance from the CDC, the Governor of Virginia, VDH and FCHD, we will review
shield barriers, signage and floor graphics in buildings and spaces on the estate to determine
whether to de-install them or keep them in place.
Operations & Maintenance will resume regular cleaning operations with a continued emphasis on
door handles, handrails for stairs and ramps, restrooms, and countertops.
We will open all indoor theaters. This includes the Robert H. & Clarice Smith Theater, the Eagles
Theater, the Robert H. & Clarice Smith Auditorium Rev War Theater, Romance Theater, Be
Washington and the Interpretive Center. Limited seating and/or required seating distance may be
enforced pending recommendations from the CDC, the Governor of Virginia, VDH and FCHD.
Guest Services will resume regular shuttle bus operations as attendance demands. Shuttle bus
drivers will continue to disinfect high touch areas on the shuttle bus throughout the day.
Guest entry and exit will resume normal flow and operation.
BAG POLICY
Education & Guest Services, Security, and Media & Communications leadership will conduct a review of
the bag policy to determine if it should continue or revert to the previous bag policy.
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ESTATE SPACES
Education & Guest Services leadership will review current operational modifications
recommended by the CDC, the Governor of Virginia, VDH and FCHD (e.g. direction on social
distancing), and provide direction to History Interpretation, Character Interpretation and Historic
Trades on continuation or discontinuation of modified programming.
Regular tours of the Mansion will resume and will include the upper floor(s) with possible
limitations pending the recommendations of the CDC, the Governor of Virginia, VDH and FCHD.
Visitation to Washington’s Tomb and the Slave Memorial and Cemetery will continue, and
wreath-laying ceremonies will resume.
The Donald W. Reynolds Museum & Education Center will open for guests and staff will not limit
the flow and numbers of guests.
Interactives may be on with possible use by styluses as directed by Education & Guest Services
leadership.
The Distillery & Gristmill will continue regular tours for guests.
FOOD & BEVERAGE / RETAIL
Finance and the Director of Food & Beverage will conduct a review of the food truck on the 12-acre field
and make recommendations of its use throughout Level III.
The Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant will remain closed pending a review by the MVLA leadership, Finance, the Director of Food & Beverage and guidance from Fairfax County Health Department and will reopen when appropriate.
Finance will analyze attendance and consult with the Director of Retail to determine what shops (unless
done in Level II) will reopen in Level III. MVLA leadership will approve all recommendations.
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MOUNT VERNON COMMUNICATIONS
PUBLIC HEALTH & CONTACT TRACING
Mount Vernon’s communication policy is active and in the event a person on the estate, staff or guest,
has a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, all media requests and communications will go through the Office of
the President.
When guests purchase tickets online, their email will be saved and retained for contact tracing purposes.
A disclaimer will be on our website, allowing guests to opt out of the contact tracing notifications.
Ticketing will ask all guests that purchase tickets at the ticketing window for an email address for contact
tracing purposes, and the guest may offer that information.
Upon entry, Mount Vernon members will have their membership cards scanned by Guest Services staff in
the Ford Orientation Center; this will allow us to know what members visited on what day.
Upon receiving notification of a possible exposure to guests on the estate, contact information will be
provided to the Virginia Department of Health for contact tracing purposes.
GUESTS
We will communicate the above recommendations and operational changes to our guests proactively.
We want our guests to feel prepared and comfortable when the visit the estate, so our message regarding
safety must be a balance of positive and practical.
Media & Communications will publish the safety information on our webpage mountvernon.org/safety/
and send safety information in advance to guests that purchase tickets online. This will include:
Face covering policy;
Modified bag policy;
Social distancing requirements;
An infographic so that guests understand the current level of operation and what that means;
Link to our video highlighting the enhanced cleaning on the estate, placement of hand sanitizers
and “dos and don’ts” when visiting the estate.
When guests purchase tickets online, they will be required to check a box affirming that they have read
and comply with the posted rules.
Emails and push notifications reminding guests of health rules and expectations will be sent to guests
prior to their visit.
STAFF
In addition to the training presentation all staff must complete before returning to the estate, the staff
intranet will also provide additional information and resources at my.mountvernon.org/covid19/.
Here staff can find this reopening plan, the staff training presentation, the Mount Vernon Emergency
Operations plan, Human Resources information, hygiene etiquette signage to place in staff restrooms and
breakrooms and the ability to print social distancing signage in-house.
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HUMAN RESOURCES
MVLA VOLUNTEERS
MVLA recognizes and values its dedicated corps of volunteers and their commitment to the estate and
our mission. MVLA’s primary goal is to protect the health and safety of our employees, volunteers and
guests, maintain a healthy environment and business operations and to reduce any transmission among
employees, volunteers and guests.
Beginning in Level II, volunteers may begin to return to the estate in a variety of positions. Volunteers
will be required to view and complete the same training presentation that all staff will complete before
returning to the estate. It is the responsibility of the Manager of Volunteers and Human Resources to
ensure each volunteer has completed this training. No volunteer should return to the estate if s/he has
serious concerns for their health and safety.
Any volunteer who has been on the estate and later presents symptoms of COVID-19 should contact the
Manager of Volunteers or Human Resources immediately.
REPORTING STAFF ILLNESS, EXPOSURE & HIGH RISK
Any MVLA employee that presents symptoms of COVID-19 or lives with someone who presents symptoms
of COVID-19 should remain home and notify their manager/supervisor or Human Resources.
Once employee contacts a manager/supervisor, that person should immediately report the illness
to Human Resources and await instruction. Human Resources will confidentially contact the
employee.
Managers/supervisors are not to share the identity of the employee (except with upper
management and Human Resources).
The employee should seek medical attention and testing for COVID-19. The employee will be
asked to report results to Human Resources; the employee does not need to produce evidence of
a positive report.
Regardless of test or diagnosis, the employee should self-isolate/quarantine (14 days) and stay in
contact with supervisor and Human Resources.
For COVID-19 specific leave options, please refer inquiries to Human Resources.
If an employee lives with someone who presents or is positive for COVID-19, the employee should not
return to work until the CDC criteria to discontinue home isolation are met, in consultation with
healthcare providers and state and local health departments.
Staff who cannot telework by nature of their job and are in the vulnerable population (as defined by the
CDC) should contact Human Resources for further information at [email protected].
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POSITIVE COVID-19 DIAGNOSIS & CONTACT TRACING
If the employee receives a positive diagnosis for COVID-19, Human Resources will take the following
actions immediately:
Contact the employee directly to gather information including:
o Names of other staff the employee interacted with over the past week;
o What spaces/areas on the estate the employee visited, particular focus on what spaces
in the 48 hours prior to when symptoms presented.
Once Human Resources has obtained this information, they will contact the employee’s manager
and provide an update.
Human Resources will contact Operations & Maintenance to request an immediate disinfection
and deep cleaning of the employee’s workspace, any common areas and other specific areas as
identified by the employee.
Human Resources will then notify any staff identified by the employee as possible exposures and
request that they also stay home and telework (if possible).
Human Resources does not perform technical contract tracing; labs results are reported the local
health departments for contract tracing.
Managers/supervisors should encourage the employee to keep in touch only with them and
Human Resources.
Employees with COVID-19 will be asked to present medical certification proving fitness for duty
before returning to work.
Any additional questions or concerns should be directed to Human Resources.
STAFF TEMPERATURE CHECKS
MVLA’s primary goal is to protect the health and safety of our employees and guests, maintain a healthy
work environment and business operations and to reduce any transmission among employees and guests.
At this time, MVLA does not deem staff temperature checks to be necessary as part of our health and
safety procedures. MVLA will follow guidance from the FCHD for employers regarding health and safety.
If temperature checks become part of MVLA’s procedures, Human Resources will implement and
communicate that process and ensure that MVLA remains in compliance with all applicable federal, state
and local laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act as enforced
by Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), and (OSHA).
TEMPORARY TELEWORK POLICY
The COVID-19 Temporary Remote Work Procedure applies to MVLA employees whose job duties may fully
or partially be performed away from the regular work location. Department managers have the discretion
to approve or deny requests for remote work arrangements based on the prioritization and preservation
of MVLA and business unit needs, eligibility of the request, characteristics of the job duties, resources
available to support remote work, and the department manager’s ability to provide adequate supervision
for the remote employee. Department managers should work with the employee to establish an
appropriate schedule. Telecommuting is not designed to be a replacement for appropriate childcare: the
focus of the arrangement is on job performance and meeting business demands.
If eligibility for a temporary remote work arrangement is confirmed, the employee and manager or
department head should complete the COVID-19 temporary remote work agreement form via Paycom or
the Intranet. Human Resources will maintain and track temporary Remote Work Request Forms. Remote
work may begin immediately.
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EXPANDED EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
MVLA offers Employee Assistance Program (EAP) access to all employees in order to offer additional
support during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
All employees have access to:
A dedicated 24/7 toll-free hotline (1-800-366-1192), which can provide immediate emotional
support surrounding;
financial issues, the loss of a loved one, anxiety, etc. (select option 1 on call prompt)
research and referrals, and access to guidance and local resources (select option 2 on call prompt).
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APPENDIX A – THREE-LEVEL OPENING
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APPENDIX B – NUMBER OF TELEWORK STAFF IN LEVEL I
Department # Telework
President's Office 3
Events 1
Finance 6
Information Technology 5
Human Resources 4
Operations & Maintenance 2
HP&C 12
Education 8
Washington Library 13
Media & Communications 7
Development 12
Total 73
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APPENDIX C – COMPLETE LIST OF ESTATE SPACES FOR ENHANCED CLEANING
Texas Gate
Entrance handrail
Ford Orientation Center
Ticketing offices
Ford Orientation Center restrooms
Ford Orientation Center breakroom and restroom
Entrance and exit doors
Handrails for stairs and ramp
Information desk counter
OC brick pathway handrail
Ann Pamela Cunningham (APC) Building
Main level doors
Restrooms
Elevator
Reception desk counter
Copy and Mail Room
Historic Area
Crossroads handrail
North Lane restrooms
Pioneer Farmer restrooms
Piazza chairs
Drinking fountains
Mansion and Outbuildings (by preservation or collections managements unless otherwise noted)
Interior or exterior doorknobs of all exterior doors
Edges of doors to new room and east central passage doorway
Door architraves (frames around the doorway) along visitor path, from knee to head height
Walls and doors of east and west vestibules
Plexiglass stanchions (to be cleaned by history interpreters with plexicleaner)
Donald W. Reynolds Museum & Education Center
Entrance doors
Elevator
Handrails for stairs
Exit doors
Museum & Education Center galleries (when approved for reopening)
Mount Vernon Inn Complex
Front and side doors
Vaughan Lobby restrooms
Washington Library
Conference rooms Restrooms Copy and mail rooms Hand railings and doorknobs throughout building
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APPENDIX D – LOCATIONS & LISTING FOR HAND SANITIZER STATIONS / HEALTH SIGNAGE
LEVEL I – EAST & WEST PARKING LOTS
FOOD TRUCK SOCIAL DISTANCING HAND SANITIZER STATION FACE COVERINGS REQUIRED
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LEVEL I – TEXAS GATE
LEVEL I – FORD ORIENTATION CENTER
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LEVEL I – DONALD W. REYNOLDS MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
LEVEL I – 12 ACRE FIELD
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LEVEL I – BOWLING GREEN & MANSION CIRCLE
LEVEL I – NORTH LANE
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LEVEL I – WASHINGTON’S TOMB
LEVEL I – PIONEER FARM
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LEVEL I - WHARF
LEVEL I – WASHINGTON LIBRARY
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APPENDIX E – HAND SANITIZER STATION LOCATIONS
HAND SANITIZER STATION LOCATIONS FOR STAFF AND GUEST USE
1. Entrance of Ford Orientation Center
2. Entrance of Donald W. Reynolds Museum & Education Center
3. Exit of Donald W. Reynolds Museum & Education Center
4. Vaughan Lobby
5. 12 Acre Field (2 stations)
6. Washington Library (2 stations)
7. Entrance of Ann Pamela Cunningham (APC) Building
