Latest Hartford Coronavirus Updates

HARTFORD, CT — The new coronavirus outbreak in Connecticut and across the nation is having vast impacts in Hartford, including the closure of schools and many businesses.

The number of cases of the illness caused by the virus, known as COVID-19, continue to rise and additional measures and closures continue to be announced. The governor has declared a 'Stay Safe, Stay Home' program. All non-life-sustaining businesses in Connecticut have been closed.
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The number of confirmed positive coronavirus cases in Connecticut has now reached 25,977, and 2,012 deaths reported along with 1,758 hospitalizations currently. Hartford has 924 confirmed cases and 77 deaths.

Here are the latest local updates from Hartford:

Hartford officials have taken several steps to mitigate the spread of the new coronavirus. On Tuesday the city announced social distancing guidelines related to the police department. Residents are encouraged to use the city's Teleserve system for many non-emergency incidents during this time.

Hartford schools are closed until at least April 20, though officials speculate they will likely not open until the fall. The state's "Stay Safe, Stay Home" order also directs all non-essential businesses and not-for-profit entities in Connecticut to prohibit all in-person functions as strictly as possible.

Schools began distributing Chromebooks to students March 23 and will begin a distance learning program March 30. Sixteen meal distribution sites have been placed throughout the city and will be open daily.

The city limited gatherings to 10 or fewer people on March 19. However, Gov. Ned Lamont recently announced that gatherings of five or more people will be prohibited until April 30.

City Hall and other city departments have restricted walk-in access for the public. Go to the city's website for more information.

Hartford Public Libraries will be closed indefinitely. However, libraries are still offering access to digital resources and library staff will be available for questions via e-mail at contactus@hplct.org or by calling 860-695-6300.

While businesses remain temporarily closed, Hartford has been hard hit by layoffs. A local brewery has announced it will permanently close and LAZ Parking said it will lay off workers due to sluggish demand.

See related: CT Coronavirus: New Grocery Store Changes, Retail Restrictions

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