Dear Residents, Families, and Associates of Byron Park,
From the beginning of the pandemic we hoped for a sprint but prepared for a marathon at Byron Park. While some of our policies may have seemed restrictive, they have been critical in managing safely in this new landscape. The health, safety and happiness of our associates and residents alike have continued to be top of mind. Behind the scenes over the last few months we have been diligently working on new operating models, procurement of personal protective equipment and new sanitation equipment as well as seeking out the latest in testing science.
Over the summer Byron Park partnered with Genetworx, an east coast lab with years of experience in PCR testing, to begin providing surveillance testing for our residents and associates. Genetworx has been a great partner and has been consistently providing test results in less than 48 hours from receipt. With this traditional testing partner in place we continued to search for a fast, efficient, and less invasive way to regularly test all our residents, associates, and providers.
We have now identified a new lab partner and starting on Tuesday September 29th, 2020 we will begin to roll out new “pooled” testing for all residents, associates, and providers. This new testing process will take samples from larger groups of residents, around 50+, combine them and then test the one sample. If that test comes back negative, we know all residents in that “pool” are negative. If the “pool” comes back positive, then we will use the traditional nasal/throat PCR tests to identify any positive cases for treatment. This new “pooled” testing does not involve any of the invasive nasal or throat swabs but instead utilizes a saliva sample. Associates will be tested twice a week and residents will be tested once a week. Residents who leave the community routinely or often will be added to a “high-risk pool” and will be tested twice a week. Our routine providers and vendors will also be tested weekly. This enhanced testing cadence and proactive measures is unheard of in our industry and market.
One of the best parts of our new testing capabilities is it will allow us to return to a closer to normal life for those who live and work at Byron Park. Beginning Wednesday September 30th our Bistro reopens with its popular grab and go menu which can be enjoyed in our serene courtyard. On Monday October 5th, we will begin to reopen our dining room. Much like our county we will be taking a measured phased approach to this so that we can provide the high level of service our residents deserve while keeping everyone safe and properly spaced in our dining room. Chef Bill Capps, our Dining Services Director, will be sending a letter out on the specifics of our reopening and reservation system next week. Our beauty salon located on the 4th floor will also formally reopen with full hair and nail services and under new management on October 1st, 2020.
With our recent recommencement of indoor visits from families and loved ones I have had the pleasure to hear so many wonderful stories and anecdotes of associates who have gone above and beyond to make a difference. If we have not had a chance to connect yet, you can also recognize our Kisco Hero’s on this platform: Send a heartfelt message to our heroes- Click Here
As of today, Contra Costa County’s positivity rate is at 3.4%, the lowest since the beginning of the pandemic. As our county continues to reopen, we will continue to adjust and enhance the lifestyle offerings Byron Park is known for. We remain enthusiastic about our next phase but know it is a fluid environment and our lifestyle offerings; containment initiatives and safety restrictions will change from time to time based on the prevalence of COVID-19 in our community and Contra Costa County. We at Byron Park appreciate the trust you all put in us and are working diligently to keep our residents, families, and associates happy, healthy, and safe during these unparalleled times.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Pastora
Executive Director