On May 1, Governor Inslee and the state Department of Health announced an extension of the Stay Home, Stay Healthy order through May 31. A reopening plan was also announced that outlines four phases of reopening businesses and resuming activities involving group gatherings, travel, shopping and recreation. The focus is on reopening safely and protecting the health of workers and the general public.
As we enter “Phase 1” of the reopening plan, some recreational activities can resume, including activities right here in Kenmore. State parks have re-opened on a limited basis including Saint Edward State Park at reduced capacity. The boat launch has been reopened with limited parking due to construction on the West Sammamish River Bridge. Fishing, golfing and hunting activities are allowed with social distancing restrictions.
The City of Kenmore continues to stay updated and respond to the guidance of Public Health and the governor. City facilities, including City Hall and the public portion of the Hangar, will remain closed to the public until further notice. While parks in Kenmore have remained open during the pandemic, playgrounds and restrooms will continue to be closed through the end of the month. City council meetings will be held virtually through May, and city staff who are able to work from home will continue to do so.
Most services provided by the City can be found online, and staff are working to keep services such as permitting, service requests, public records requests, and more up and running. Essential services such as police, fire, roadway safety, parks maintenance and certain construction projects continue to operate normally.
As we enter this new phase and continue to do everything possible to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our own local community, please remember to practice strict social distancing in public places including trails, grocery stores, gas stations and parks. Engage in physical distancing of at least six feet and use a face covering while in public to help keep one another safe. The City is planning to announce a proclamation soon that strongly encourages the use of face coverings in public and will provide access to masks for our local community members.
For more information and to stay up to date on the City’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, visit kenmorewa.gov.