Allegheny County Urges Massive Shutdown Of Businesses

PITTSBURGH, PA - Allegheny County officials are urging all nonessential businesses in the county to close or implement alternative working conditions for 14 days to limit the spread of the coronavirus. The recommendation is voluntary at this point.

County executive Rich Fitzgerald and health director Dr. Debra Bogen issued the request after the county's first cases of COVID-19 were confirmed over the weekend. There are now four confirmed cases in the county, but the number is expected to increase Monday when updated numbers are released by the state Department of Health.

“This is an unprecedented challenge that our community is facing,” Fitzgerald said. “This is an unprecedented time in our community. Our region has always been at its best when we work together, and this challenge is no exception. We need everyone to step up and play a part in slowing the spread of COVID-19 in our region. We understand that this may cause hardship for some, and frustration for others, but it’s imperative that we work together to do what’s best for our community.”

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Specific locations that would fall under this recommendation include:

• Child care centers.

• Senior centers.

• Community and recreation centers.

• Gyms, including yoga, spin, barre and similar facilities.

• Hair salons, nail salons and spas.

• Casinos.

• Bars.

• Concert venues.

• Theaters.

• Sporting event facilities.

• Golf clubs.

• Social clubs.

• Non-essential retail facilities, including shopping malls (except for pharmacies or health care facilities located in them).

While restaurants are included in this recommendation, businesses are encouraged to stay open for carry-out and delivery only. Churches and other religious institutions are asked to refrain from social gatherings but should remain open for social services and support of their communities. Gatherings should be of 20 people or less during this time.

The recommendation does not apply to supermarkets, pharmacies or gas stations.