Video Update for June 8
Good Evening Melrose, this is your Mayor Paul Brodeur.
As Massachusetts enters into the beginning of phase 2, lots of changes have arrived. Here’s some of what that means for Melrose:
Our retailers can open with certain restrictions, mostly requiring social distancing, face coverings, sanitation policies, and limiting the number of customers who can be in a store at the same time. Many retailers are still offering curbside delivery, and we have dedicated some parking space to make that process go smoother. Please reach out to your local Melrose business to get more information about their plans for phase 2.
Starting today, restaurants may expand beyond take-out to offer outdoor dining. That requires some city approval, particularly for restaurants that hold licenses to serve alcohol; however the state has streamlined that process temporarily. The city and the reopening task force have been working since before Governor Baker’s order to help our restaurants take advantage of these changes as soon as possible. Check in with your favorite restaurant to learn whether they plan to offer outdoor dining.
The recreation department will be offering programing with classes starting on June 15th. Visit the rec department website to see what is being offered, what safety precautions are being followed, and how to sign up. Registration is open now, and spaces are somewhat limited to due pandemic restrictions.
The City’s parks will be opening this week for public use, subject to physical distancing and other requirements. The skate park will reopen but will be limited to ten people at a time. And we anticipate reopening the play structures in our playgrounds this week. There will be signage at all of our parks and fields to let people know the rules under phase 2 state guidance. The Parks Department will reach out to our user groups, including our youth sports groups, about how they can access our fields during phase 2.
Melrose has made great progress limiting the spread of COVID-19, and I am excited that we are moving into phase 2. Our public health officials are optimistic regarding the statistical trends, but remind us that Covid 19 remains a significant threat and that our continued progress relies on us continuing to do what works. Please continue wash your hands frequently, and to wear a face covering when it is unlikely you will be able to physically distance and whenever you enter a public indoor space. It helps protect you and your neighbors and helps local business!
I will have more updates tomorrow, but until then remember that together, we will get through this.
Thank you and good night.