State parks to allow camping on July 8
Connecticut reports continued decline in virus hospitalizations
As the COVID-19 pandemic slows in Connecticut and the state continues to reopen, Gov. Ned Lamont announced a few hundred new confirmed cases and seventeen additional deaths Saturday.
Nearly 44,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in the state since the pandemic began, with 358 new cases reported Saturday, and more than 293,000 tests having been reported. More than 4,000 people have died of the virus in Connecticut.
But the numbers of new COVID-19 cases and deaths continue to decline from the peak of the pandemic in Connecticut. The state is approaching its next phase of reopening on June 17.
Lamont recently moved up the date for the second phase of Connecticut’s reopening plan from June 20 to June 17, citing Father’s Day and the state’s continued progress in containing the coronavirus. The new order allows the reopening of restaurants, movie theaters, gyms and hotels, in addition to amusement parks, museums, libraries, and
nail salons. Bars will remain closed.
Phase three of reopening Connecticut would come about four weeks later, around July 20.
Some other coronavirus related announcements:
The state announced that school districts will be allowed to hold in-person graduation ceremonies beginning July 6 following guidelines. The ceremonies must be held outdoors, limited to a maximum of 150 people in attendance, and with proper social distancing protocols followed.
The Department of Education released guidance to school superintendents regarding in-person summer school programs. They can begin July 6 provided their locations comply with health requirements, and safety plans are reviewed.
AAA has reopened eight retail stores to provide DMV licensing services, though customers are required to make appointments in advance. Reopened stores are located in Avon, Cromwell, Enfield, Manchester, Old Saybrook, Southington, Waterford and West Hartford.
State park camping to begin July 8
The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection announced Saturday that camping at state parks will reopen on July 8, for both tents and recreational vehicles.
“I am pleased to announce that we will have a camping season this year. It is important that our state offer as many outdoor opportunities as possible for people to enjoy, provided we can do so safely,” Commissioner Katie Dykes said in a news release. “I am especially appreciative of the hard work by our parks staff to get ready for the camping season — there are many steps needed this year to keep our staff and the public safe, and our team will be working hard leading up to the July 8 opening to ensure a positive and safe visitor experience.”
The department said it is preparing campgrounds for safe recreation, including by hiring and training staff to clean bathrooms to required standards and by procuring the necessary personal protective equipment. Campers can begin making new reservations for the season on June 20 and RV campers on July 1.
Hartford Healthcare to allow visitors
Hartford HealthCare hospitals are opening their doors to visitors again after the COVID-19 pandemic led to restrictions. Hospitals will be allowing visitors beginning this week. Hartford HealthCare was one of the first hospital systems to restrict visitors to keep patients and staff safe from COVID-19. Visitors will only be allowed in through select entrances for a screening process and will have their temperature taken. They will be required to wear a mask, use hand hygiene and practice social distancing.