Bell Works to reopen with Hackensack Meridian Health’s Assist Program

Holmdel’s Bell Works on Aug. 28 detailed its reopening plan. Created in partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health’s Reopening America Assist Program, the plan includes facility and operational upgrades, design enhancements, and “Stop the Spread” guidelines.

“The Bell Works Metroburb has evolved into a cultural heartbeat for the region. We understood the building’s importance to the community, as well as our responsibility to provide our businesses with a safe and secure environment in line with government guidelines,” said Robert Feinberg, director of operations of Somerset Development. “Under the expert guidance of Hackensack Meridian Health and the tireless efforts of the Bell Works staff and design team, we’re proud to once again open our doors to tenants and guests.”

In addition to aligning with best practice guidelines as specified by Hackensack Meridian Health’s Reopening America Assist Program, the Bell Works team employed a multi-tiered reopening strategy that included physical design changes and operational protocol upgrades.

With guidance from Hackensack Meridian Health, Bell Works implemented the system’s Dahua Thermal scanners at each of the entrances of the building. The scanners detect fever-level temperatures in guests as they enter the building, allowing them to efficiently pass the scanner without having to stop if they are registering normal temperatures. Hackensack Meridian Health also supplied Patient Care Technicians (PCTs) for temperature screening assistance and will continue to provide weekly scientific updates as well as policy and procedure reviews.

Additional safety measures, implemented and overseen by the Bell Works’ Operational team including Senior Property Manager Pat Garofalo and Head of Tenant Services Brian Anderson, feature increased fresh air flow and upgraded air filters, installation of additional hand sanitizer stations with touchless receptacles along the corridors, and new ‘wave to open’ entry and bathroom doors.

Furthermore, all staff, security and maintenance personnel have undergone training to reduce the risk for disease transmission, including for thermal scanning procedures and protocols in the event a tenant or visitor is found to have an elevated temperature.

“We are committed to ensuring that we exceed the highest standards of health, wellness and quality of life as we welcome back our tenants, their employees and visitors from throughout the region,” said Garofalo.

Interior design and layout enhancements, led by Bell Works Creative Director Paola Zamudio and her team at NPZ Style+Decor include additional furniture from Moroso, Hay, and Blue Dot spaced throughout the atrium and outdoor roofdeck to meet social distance mandates; wayfinding graphics that direct and guide foot traffic; and signage educating tenants and guests on COVID-19 signs, symptoms, etiquette and precautionary measures.

Bell Works’ participation further underscores the commitment of Somerset Development and its operational team’s dedication to reduce risk and mitigate exposure to COVID-19, the company said, reassuring tenants and visitors that it is safe to return to work and to resume activities within the building.

With the help of HMH, Bell Works developed its own “Stop the Spread” initiative that includes new house rules, like requiring face masks for entry and at all times in all indoor common areas; restrictions against pets allowed in the Metroburb until further notice; sanitizing laptops, phones, bags, etc.; recommended frequent hand washing, for 20 seconds; guidance not to handle coins or paper money; and advisement to practice social distancing and, if you feel sick stay home.