Lexington is shutting down popular nature areas, along with golf courses and athletic fields, in response to reports of residents failing to engage in prescribed social distancing measures to combat the spread of COVID-19. The latest round of closures comes as the city is reporting the first positive case in their own ranks.
"This is absolutely disappointing and is endangering lives," Mayor Linda Gorton said, responding to reports of residents congregating at parks as the weather warms up.
While local officials say closing all parks and playgrounds isn't feasible, the city is shutting the gates to nature sanctuaries Raven Run and McConnell Springs, effective Friday night. Also off limits will be golf courses, city athletic fields, and skate parks. Residents may notice basketball hoops disappearing, as the city looks to cut down on the contact sport.
Meanwhile, the mayor announced she's opening the city's Emergency Operations Center as Lexington's first city employee has tested positive for the virus. The firefighter is now undergoing a 14-day isolation while eight others, believed to have come in contact with the individual, are currently in self-quarantine.
"We have been planning for this scenario for several weeks," Lexington Fire Chief Kristin Chilton told reporters. "And out ability to respond to emergency incidents has not been impacted as a result of these personnel measures."
Lexington is also suspending curbside yard waste pickup until further notice, to free up workers more as the city pares down services to the essentials.
