WATCH: Burlington Reopening Update On Spaces And Air Quality

BURLINGTON, MA — Burlington Public Schools officials presented details Thursday evening on aspects of the district's reopening planning related to spaces, layout, cleaning and air quality.

A task force led by Operations Director Bob Cunha is exploring ways to reduce coronavirus transmission risk and meet state guidelines by distancing and ensuring proper ventilation. Public health officials recommend ventilation with outdoor air to reduce virus infections, while state rules require districts to meet at least 3 feet distancing at all times.

Cunha said the district has brought in a third party engineering firm, as well as a resident with relevant experience, to evaluate the district's ventilation systems. His task force is also looking at options for distancing ranging from using additional spaces like gyms and cafeterias for learning, to purchasing tents, to making hallways run one-way whenever possible.

The district is also planning to distribute hand sanitizer throughout buildings, schedule regular hand washing and limit the use of shared items and sanitize them when necessary.

The full presentation is available here from BCAT.

The school committee meets Monday and will vote on the reopening plan. The administration plans to post a frequently asked questions document on the district website Friday, Superintendent Eric Conti said.

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.