Greenwich Coronavirus: Senior, Arts Center Closed

GREENWICH, CT — Greenwich First Selectman Fred Camillo announced late Tuesday that beginning Wednesday, March 11, the Greenwich Senior and Arts Center, otherwise known as "299 on The Ave," will be closed to the public until further notice.

As of Tuesday afternoon, two cases of the virus, now referred to as COVID-19, have been diagnosed in Connecticut, however none have been reported in Greenwich. (Don't miss updates in Connecticut concerning the Coronavirus as they are announced. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters.)

Camillo said the closure impacts all activities held by the Greenwich Commission on Aging at the Senior Center, including the daily lunch program for seniors, as well as the Greenwich Arts Council and its member groups.

"We have been working closely with the Greenwich Health Department and it is with an abundance of care and caution that this decision has been made to protect our more vulnerable residents," Camillo said in a statement. "We know that older adults and people with serious chronic medical conditions are especially vulnerable and we have made the difficult decision to preemptively close 299 on the Ave."

Camillo also said the town also is complying with Gov. Ned Lamont's order that all nursing homes be closed to visitors, including the Nathaniel Witherell nursing home.

While the center is closed to the public, the staff will continue to report to work so residents can communicate with staff via telephone and email. The center also is exploring food shopping trips as well as opportunities for virtual learning so that center members can remain connected, Camillo said.

The Commission on Aging may be reached at 203-862-6710, and the Greenwich Senior Center may be reached at 203-862-6700. The most up-to-date information on resources for older adults and senior center information also can be found on the commission's website.

For the latest information regarding the Greenwich Arts Council, residents can call 203-862-6750.

See also: Greenwich First Selectman Provides Update On Coronavirus

To reduce the risk of exposure, Camillo urges all residents who feel ill to stay home.

"Do not go to the doctor or the hospital emergency room," Camillo said. "Please call your doctor or the emergency room for guidance."

Avoiding large crowds and washing hands after coming in contact with touchable devices and surfaces also will decrease the chance of contracting this and or any other virus, Camillo said.

"The town continues to monitor all operations and is reviewing future events as well so that adjustments may be made as necessary and in an orderly manner," Camillo said. "I continue to be in communication with my fellow chief elected officials in our neighboring communities, as well with our state officials."

As of Tuesday afternoon, two Connecticut residents and two hospital employees have tested positive for the virus, now referred to as COVID-19. One Wilton resident tested positive on Sunday, and the second Connecticut resident to test positive is a Bethlehem woman who is a heath care worker at Bridgeport Hospital, officials said.

The two hospital employees are New York residents and work at Danbury, Norwalk and Bridgeport hospitals. The state lab so far has tested 56 individuals, with 54 negative results.

Further information regarding the virus can be found on the town health department's website.