Columbus: One of the Safest U.S. Cities to Visit Post-Pandemic

In preparation for the return of large gatherings, Columbus, Ohio, the host of BCMC 2020, has announced extraordinary measures to ensure their downtown is safe for out-of-town visitors.

Experience Columbus, the city’s tourism initiative, announced this week it is the first organization in the nation to lead a citywide collaborative effort to get every sector, from event venues and lodging to transportation and hospitality, to commit to securing accreditation under the Global Biorisk Advisory Council’s GBAC STAR program. That program is the cleaning industry’s highest standard for preparing facilities and the only outbreak prevention, response and recovery accreditation for facilities.

What does this mean?  It means that when you travel to Columbus for BCMC in September, you will arrive at an airport that is accredited as meeting the highest standards for facility cleanliness.  The Greater Columbus Convention Center, where BCMC will be held, will have that same accreditation. The Hilton Columbus Downtown and the Hyatt Regency Columbus will also be accredited, as will several restaurants around the convention center.  The city’s public bus system is the first in the country committed to obtaining this accreditation as well.

Beyond the transportation networks and facilities you use, BCMC staff is actively reviewing CDC guidance on minimizing the spread of infectious diseases like COVID-19, and is working with the Greater Columbus Convention Center to institute the practices and procedures known to be most effective at keeping all attendees safe. BCMC is committed to protecting the health of every attendee and exhibitor and ensuring a positive and valuable experience for everyone!

Make your plans today to attend BCMC 2020 in Columbus, Ohio, September 29 - October 2, and if you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact BCMC staff at 608-274-4849.