BLUE BELL REOPENS VISITOR CENTER, ICE CREAM PARLOR, COUNTRY STORE

  

Blue Bell Creameries has reopened the tourist attractions at its Brenham facility.

The company said in a release that it reopened the visitor center, ice cream parlor, and country store today (Monday).  The observation deck remains closed at this time.

The facility will be open to visitors Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and during these summer months, Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The company said, in compliance with state and local guidelines and for the safety of visitors and employees, it is limiting the number of people allowed in the buildings at one time.  It is also encouraging social distancing both verbally and with posted signage, and has increased availability of sanitizing stations.

In addition, the company has set up a tent and special events trailer in the parking lot to serve guests outdoors, in the event the limited indoor capacity creates an overflow issue.

The company’s tourism destinations had been closed since March.

In May, the company reported an employee at the Brenham facility had tested positive for COVID-19.  The employee was quarantined and remains under supervision, while any workers who worked closely with the affected employee were asked to self-quarantine and monitor for any symptoms for 14 days.

Blue Bell previously said it has implemented safety measures specifically to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.  It said its employees continue to work to keep the supply of products flowing to stores, allowing the company’s retail partners to focus on distributing other products in high demand.