Framingham Closes Parking Near Major City Park

FRAMINGHAM, MA — In an attempt to encourage social distancing, Framingham closed the parking lot near the sprawling Farm Pond park complex along Dudley Road. This is the latest parks-related closure after the city shut down facilities like playgrounds and sports courts.

The closure comes as Framingham's total coronavirus case count reached 145 on Monday, an increase of 2 compared to Sunday. With the five deaths so far and 21 people who have recovered from the virus, the active case count stood at 119 on Monday.

Framingham on Monday also rolled out a new resource for victims of sexual and domestic violence. The organization Voices Against Violence is offering help by phone, 508-826-8686 or 800-593-1125, and online chat at rc.chat/voices.

Also on Monday, Framingham police posted a picture on Facebook of the crowded Cushing Memorial Park lot, reminding park-goers to keep apart.

"The parks and trails are open for passive use," the post read. "Please keep your social distancing while enjoying the weather."