Temporary Ride Guidelines for MAF Members

MAF Members:

 I am sure you are aware that we are experiencing an upsurge in Covid-19 cases in the United States as well as in New Jersey.  Our current case rate in New Jersey is higher than the rate when we suspended the ride schedule in March, and well above what the state was experiencing when we reopened the ride schedule in June.  At yesterday’s MAF Board meeting it was decided that we would return to the same restrictions we had in place when we reopened our ride calendar in the summer.  Rides will be limited to a maximum of 10 riders, and ride leaders can set their own limit of between 4 and 10 riders.  To reduce crowding in the parking lots and at rest stops, rides from the same starting point need to be spaced by at least 30 minutes.  

These guidelines are in line with those set by BTCNJ and PFW and are put in place for the safety of our riders and their families. We also want to ensure we abide by the governor’s mandate limiting outdoor “events” to 25 persons or less.  I know many of you may not view multiple rides from the same start point as “an event”.  While these may seem to us to be distinct rides, an external observer (including law enforcement) is unlikely to view it that way.  We do not want to jeopardize our ability to use any of our ride start points or to be a trigger for some government action (such as closing the parks or limiting parking access).  

Our other COVID restrictions, such as requiring all riders to sign in on line, no guests, wearing a mask, and social distancing are still in effect.  Please do not come to a ride if you feel sick in any way, or have been exposed to anyone who may have COVID.  If you have traveled out of state, please follow NJ state guidelines about self-isolation on return.  And consider downloading the NJCOVID app (available for iOS and Android) devices to be notified if you have come in contact with someone who tests positive for COVID.  (https://covid19.nj.gov/pages/app)

Our ride leaders have done a great job this summer and fall, adding additional rides and using different start points.  Please remember that they are volunteers, and they will be enforcing the MAFW policy on attendance and sign ups.  And please consider reducing the burden on those who have already led many rides this season by becoming a ride leader yourself.  The last thing the Board wants to do is prevent riders from riding.   But with smaller ride size we need even more ride leaders to accommodate members who want to ride.

These restrictions will be in place through at least January 31, 2021.  The only change would be if the state imposes more stringent restrictions on outdoor sports and contact between those of different households. This is a definite possibility, as several states already have such limitations, and these would effectively shut down our ride schedule.  All indications are that COVID rates will continue to climb after the end of year holidays; estimates are that we have yet to reach the post-Thanksgiving peak. .

For those who would like to ride with just a few friends, the Club cue sheet library remains open to all. 

Stay safe and ride safe,

Liz Jennison (President Elect)

Andrew Stroukoff (President)