Framingham Closing Schools, Library, Senior Center For 2 Weeks

FRAMINGHAM, MA — Framingham is shutting down some major public facilities for the next two weeks in response to the new coronavirus. The closures include schools, Loring Arena, the library, and senior center.

Services in Framingham that will not be disrupted include trash collection, police, and the fire department. City Hall meetings will also continue, but with new protocols for public participation.

"I understand this isn’t ideal for many residents, especially our students, older adults, and even employees," Mayor Yvonne Spicer said in a statement. "This decision will impact businesses and organizations, but the health and safety of our community is the number one priority. We have been advised that the best way to slow the spread of this virus is to minimize contact.

"We must protect those who are most susceptible to COVID-19.”

Framingham is also canceling all Parks and Recreation Department activities through March 29 and refunding any fees.

A long-term school closure means many students will lose out on meals they usually get at school. Superintendent Robert Tremblay said more news about that would be coming soon. Natick has closed school all next week, but has worked out a system to provide meals for students who need them.

The city's announcement follows Gov. Charlie Baker's order that no gatherings of 250 or more people take place in the state until further notice. Many other school districts in the area, including Wayland, Sudbury, and Milford, had already announced long-term school closures.

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