The following is a statement from NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Director Jody Singer:
Because of our vigilance, in our work and in this community, Marshall Space Flight Center will transition from Stage 3 to Stage 2 of the NASA Framework for Return to On-Site Work on June 14. This stage transition means that more work can be authorized to return to site, although telework will still be expected for most of our team members, including office workers.
In Stage 2, only employees who must be on site to perform their work may return on-site, with supervisor approval. All other employees will continue to telework. I urge you to continue to practice good health and safety measures, both on-site and out in the community. Please look for additional guidance about the potential of re-starting services on-site as we work through this transition.
Like our previous transitions, we have used a methodical, risk-based, and data-driven approach to decide when we can responsibly move to Stage 2. We have observed a sustained downward trend in new coronavirus cases in our region and also have available hospital capacity due to a reduction of COVID-19 patients requiring the most serious medical care. We have observed that our Safe at Work Protocol Guidelines continue to help us prevent the transmission of the virus on site.
We made this decision with careful consideration and consultation with agency leadership and other appropriate officials. We have consulted with our Team Redstone partners and health officials in order to ensure our decision aligns with their next steps, too. Other NASA centers have and are considering this positive move, and we have been encouraged to make this move only when the time is right. We are ready.
I have said many times that your health and safety are at the forefront of each decision we make. I am committed to protecting your wellbeing and that of your families. Thank you for your understanding, dedication to the mission, and agility as we move forward, together.