Park

canalways continue to be available.

With the public’s health in mind, the Mill Girls and Immigrant Exhibit, at the Parick J. Morgan Cutural Center, remain closed, according to a National Park Service press release issued Thursday. Canal boat tours are also unavailable.

“The health and safety of our visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners continues to be paramount,” the release states. “At Lowell National Historical Park, our approach will be to examine each facility function and service provided to ensure those operations comply with current public health guidance and will be regularly monitored.”

Lowell National Historical Park is following guidance regarding the coronavirus pandemic provided by the White House, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as state and public health authorities.

While buildings and activies are open and available to the public, a return to full operations will continue to be phased and services may be limited, the release states. The NPS encourages the public to avoid crowding and highrisk outdoor activities, and they should follow state virus guidelines and Leave No Trace principles.

“We will continue to monitor all park functions to ensure that visitors adhere to CDC guidance for mitigating risks associated with the transmission of COVID-19 and take any additional steps necessary to protect public health,” Thursday’s release states.

As of Thursday, COVID19 data released by Department of Public Health show a 93% drop in the seven-day weighted average of positive molecular test rates statewide since mid-april. The three-day average of deaths caused by the virus have dropped 88% during that time period.

The Lowell National Park offers virtual content through its website, nps.gov/lowell. The website also offers a multimedia gallery, digital exhibits and remote learning resources.

Details and updates about Lowell National Historical Park operations are also available at the nps.gov/lowell.

Updates about the National Park Service are posted at nps.gov/coronavirus.

Follow Aaron Curtis on Twitter @aselahcurtis

JULIA MALAKIE / LOWELL SUN Park ranger Barry Green of Haverhill is at the River Transformed Exhibit at Suffolk Mills (now the Wannalancit Mills building), to explain the disassembled turbine. At left is the turbine housing, a stationary part whose blades directed water in a circular pattern to power the turbine.