Boise Mayor Lauren McLean signed a public health order Thursday closing many city facilities to the public due to rising COVID case rates and hospital strains.
“Boise is currently experiencing a COVID-19 health crisis,” McLean said. “The rate of spread is rising, and experts predict that without action, the infection rate will increase exponentially.”
CBS2 reports on Monday (Nov. 23), City Hall, City Hall West, City of Boise Libraries, Boise WaterShed, Foothills Learning Center, Boise Depot, Boise Urban Garden School, Fort Boise Community Center and the James Castle House will all be temporarily closed to the public. The closures will last until at least Jan. 15.
Some services will be given remotely and Boise Libraries will continue to offer curbside services and computer access.
“Current community hospital models require immediate action to keep our community safe, ease the burden on the health care system and control community spread,” Mayor McLean said. “What we are currently doing is not working. If we do not change our approach our health and our economy will suffer.”
Idaho IceWorld, the Boise Senior Center, and Boise Municipal Pools will also be closed through the Summer of 2021.
“The decision to close these facilities on a more permanent basis was made with the safety of our staff and our community as the immediate priority,” McLean said. “Additionally, the City of Boise reviewed the budget implications of maintaining and operating these facilities when making this decision.”
The City of Boise’s Public Health Order will take effect on Monday and it includes:
Requires face coverings
Limits city board and commissions meetings
Restricts Boise Airport access and other unique city businesses
Creates consequences for individuals and businesses who knowingly violate orders.
