By Richard Kaufman
Greenwich Hospital reached an important milestone on Wednesday, according to an update on the coronavirus from the First Selectman’s Office, as there are currently zero patients with COVID-19 being treated at the hospital.
This is the first time since March 13 that the hospital has not had a COVID-positive patient. At one point, the 200-bed facility had a high of 126 COVID patients.
“To have zero patients in Greenwich Hospital right now, when we had 126 just weeks ago, shows that our residents took seriously the virus. By remaining vigilant by physically distancing, washing our hands, and wearing masks, we have managed to stay ahead of this,” First Selectman Fred Camillo said. “Nevertheless, as we see around the country, we are not yet through with COVID-19, and thus, must remain vigilant and keep our eye on the ball. We will continue to balance reopening our town, establishing a sense of normalcy, and doing so with caution.”
Since the pandemic began, 583 patients have been discharged from the hospital and continue their recuperation at home. Fifty Greenwich residents have died as a result of COVID-19, according to the Connecticut Department of Public Health.
Additionally, as of Wednesday afternoon, there are 836 Greenwich residents who have tested positive for the virus to date, according to Greenwich Health Department Director Caroline Baisley. That represents 12 more than reported a week ago on June 24.
Baisley is concerned that the most recent cases in Greenwich have been in the 20-40-year-old age group.
“While the state of Connecticut is allowing for outdoor gatherings of 25 people, and indoor dining in restaurants, it is imperative that residents remember that face masks need to be worn when social distancing of six feet is not possible. Frequent hand-washing also is advised,” the update read in part.
Fourth of July Reminders
If you’re attending or hosting a barbecue this weekend:
- Have everyone bring their own food and plastic utensils.
- Food should go directly from the grill to a person’s plate, not a big tray of food.
- Different households are encouraged to sit together, separately from others.
Whether you are heading to the beach, a pool, or dining out, wear your mask and stay at least six feet apart from those not in your household. Bring your own disinfectant wipes to clean shared chairs or pool toys.
And if you or your holiday guests are traveling from one of the 14 states that have been identified as high infection rate states, Connecticut has issued an advisory that you must self-quarantine for 14 days. A negative COVID-19 test result does not mean the quarantine advisory can be ignored as the incubation period can last up to 10 or more days.
Parking Enforcement to be Reinstated
The collection of all Town of Greenwich parking related fees will be reinstated, beginning at 9 a.m. on Monday, July 6, 2020. Metered locations are enforced Monday through Saturday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. During these timeframes, parking on Greenwich Avenue and other locations, as posted, is limited to two-hour sessions. Those needing to park for longer durations are encouraged to use one of the many long-term / 12-hour parking lots situated throughout Town.
Parks & Recreation updates
The pool at Byram Park is now open for swimming. There is reduced capacity for pool admissions to ensure social distancing on the pool deck.
Ferry service to Island Beach and Great Captain’s Island resumed on Monday, June 29. There will be hourly service, daily, to Island Beach. The ferry to Great Captain’s Island will follow the schedule that was previously published on the Town website.
Residents are reminded to plan ahead as there will be reduced capacity on all ferries so that social distancing protocols can be followed. Please bring a face mask not only for your protection but for that of your fellow Town residents and for Town employees.
For ferry schedule updates, residents may call 203-618-7672.
Hours extended for dining establishments
First Selectman Fred Camillo and Town Planner Katie DeLuca worked with the Governor’s office and have announced that dining establishments with outdoor dining permits may extend hours of operation.
Permitted establishments may remain open until 11:00 p.m. all week long.
Other resources for residents and businesses and other helpful tips
For residents with questions about COVID-19, please call the Greenwich HealthDepartment’s phone lines: 203-622 -7865; 203-622-7703; 203-622-7614; 203- 622-7842 and 203-622-7836.
If you are concerned about an activity or a group not following COVID-19 protocols, please call the Greenwich Police Department’s non-emergency phone number: 203-622-8004.
