Naugatuck Coronavirus Updates: Masks Clarified, Golf Course News

Naugatuck, CT - As we leave the acceleration phase of the virus and approach the “new normal” in Connecticut, there needs to be further clarity on the rules for social distancing in Naugatuck.

The purpose of this memorandum is to provide guidance on various areas of activity in Naugatuck.

A. Grocery stores

There is no question that the largest groupings of people in Naugatuck are in grocery stores and that these stores pose the greatest area of concern for possible exposure to the virus. Unified Command has previously reduced limits of patrons at grocery stores in Naugatuck below the limits allowed by the governors’ executive order. The police department monitors enforcement of these orders. All stores are cooperating with Unified Command. The food supply remains constant. Our store managers do not foresee meat shortages at this time. All residents should limit their trips to the grocery store and follow all rules of the store as well as the governors’ executive order. In addition, all CDC guidelines should be followed. Masks are required by the Governor’s Executive Order No. 7BB and disposable gloves, properly utilized, are recommended. Please spread out in the store and follow the rules.

B. Pharmacies, gas stations, banks and other stores

Masks are required in pharmacies, at gas stations and other stores whenever it is likely that you will come in contact with store employees or other patrons in accordance with the Governor’s Executive Order No. 7BB. Disposable gloves are also recommended, especially at gas stations. Logic, common sense and erring on the side of caution are strongly recommended.

C. Outdoor Parks

Active sports are prohibited at this time. Basketball rims have been removed from all courts. The police continue to monitor all parks and recreation areas and they break up clusters of people as required. Relatively small groups of roaming children continue to be an area of concern. Parents should continue to monitor their children.

D. Trails

Trails are being utilized to a much greater extent as a result of the virus. In many ways, this is a positive change in life style and people are also exposed to many beautiful parts of the Borough. The problem is that most people are utilizing only a few trails and are ignoring several existing trails. There are large numbers of people utilizing the Bridle trail, Hop Brook Park, and Linden Park. These trails are very crowded. Everyone is encouraged to utilize our existing trail network directly behind the dog park that connects to the State Forest and offers many options to expand your hike. In addition, the 22 kilometer Mission 22 trail is being opened this weekend. This is a very difficult trail and it also offers several sections that can be done at different times.
We are also opening a new Nichols Road trail with loops to the Bridle trail as well as Hop Brook Park. More information and mapping can be obtained from the Mayor’s office. Maps can be requested electronically at nwhess@naugatuck-ct.gov

E. Golf Course

The golf course was not closed because golf is not consistent with social distancing. The course was closed because some people were not following the rules and there was an attitude of bravado that was inconsistent with social distancing. The golf course will be reopened on Monday, April 27th, with modified rules and much tighter enforcement. The course will be monitored and starting times will be spread out limiting the number of players for the entire 58-acre parcel. The parking lot will be monitored. Follow the rules.

F. Restaurants

Restaurants will continue with take out only protocols. We all continue to support our local restaurants. Restaurants should follow all mandated protocols and CDC guidelines. Further guidance will come from the State.

G. Complaints / Questions

Reference:
Governor Lamont’s Executive Order No. 7BB:
https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/...

Unified Command thanks everyone who has been following the rules.

Stay Safe
Stay Healthy

Unified Command