Norwalk Coronavirus Update: 6 More Deaths Reported, Mayor Says

NORWALK, CT — The total of number of Norwalk residents who have died from the new coronavirus (COVID-19) reached 60 on Thursday after six more died, according to Mayor Harry Rilling. Seven more confirmed cases were reported, bringing the total to 1,365.

"I am heartbroken by today’s news of six new deaths in our community," Rilling said. "These are our friends and neighbors who are being taken from us far too soon. I ask us all to keep these grieving families in our hearts and minds," Mayor Rilling said.

Statewide, the number of deaths reached 1,639 as of Thursday, and confirmed COVID-19 cases stands at 23,100, according to state health officials.

The number of hospitalizations statewide declined by 25 in the past day, but the number of deaths rose by 95 and the confirmed cases rose by 631. (Don't miss local and statewide news about coronavirus developments and precautions. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.)

In Fairfield County, the number of new positive cases broke the 10,000 barrier at 10,008, which far and away remains the most confirmed cases in Connecticut.

Rilling said that one positive note in recent days is that many of the businesses in the city have been complying with social distancing and other coronavirus-related recommendations.

"I have been encouraged in my travels around Norwalk and through random checks by the Norwalk Health Department that many of our businesses are following all of the local, state and federal recommendations and guidelines," Rilling said. "We are correcting issues when we see them. I ask the public to continue putting in the hard work and follow these guidelines to stay healthy."

This is from Rilling's Thursday announcement:

• To more accurately reflect the situation in Norwalk, local officials will now be reporting data based on the date of specimen collection, as positive test results may be reported several days after collection. It is important to note that data for the most recent week (April 19-25) are pending. Also, due to dates missing on certain collection reports, the [numbers] may not add up to the total case count stated above.
• The City created a dedicated section of its website for all upcoming meetings, complete with instructions on how to join via Zoom, call in, or watch on YouTube. The list is constantly updated and can found at norwalkct.org/meetings.
• Yesterday, the Norwalk Parking Authority voted to continue the suspension of all parking fees for street, surface lots, and garages through May. Officials note that permit holders may see emails indicating a charge for May will be applied. This is an automated and prescheduled message. Permit holders will not be charged for May parking fees. If a charge appears or if someone has a question, email norwalkparkingpermit@lazparking.com or call (203) 831-9063.
• The boat launch at Veteran’s Park will be open this Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. for Norwalk residents only who rent marina slips and wish to put their boat in the water. A season launch permit fee of $20.00 must be paid on site (credit card only) and an appointment is required through the Recreation and Parks Department. Appointments must be made by 5 p.m. on Friday, April 24. Please email vetsmarina@norwalkct.org for more information and to make an appointment. Traffic will be routed through the rear entrance of Vets Park on Seaview Avenue (near Overtons) and around the park. Direct access to the boat launch will be restricted. Police will be on site to monitor traffic and help ensure physical distancing. Those who show up without an appointment will be turned away.

Members of the public are encouraged to sign-up for the City's CodeRED Emergency Alert Notification System at norwalkct.org/codered. Updates on City services, hours, and community resources will be routinely published at norwalkct.org/citynews. The latest health updates can be found at norwalkct.org/coronavirus.