CARMEL, Ind. — Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard on Wednesday declared a local disaster emergency, prompted by the coronavirus pandemic.
Among the new orders issued by Mayor Brainard are:
- A “watch” travel advisory within the corporate limits of the City of Carmel
- The closure of all Carmel public playgrounds
- The closure of all gyms and workout facilities
- All banks, credit unions, and investments services are to remain open but only with ATM and drive-thru services
“I realize that the steps we are taking are difficult for local business owners and residents, but we must act quickly and we must act now to prevent the further spread of this deadly virus that has brought much pain and death to China and European countries and is threatening to do the same here in the United States of America,” said Mayor Brainard. “The pain we are experiencing today is nowhere near the pain we will most certainly experience if we sit back and do nothing. I urge all Carmel residents to join me in fighting this virus.”
Effective Wednesday, March 18 beginning at 7 p.m., travel in the city of Carmel is only permitted for the following reasons:
- Medical reasons
- Providing care to one who you’re the primary caregiver for
- Mandatory work activities
- Shopping for food, groceries, medication, essential household goods, and hygiene products
- Travel relating to food delivery/the resupply of stores, pharmacies, or food pantries
- Travel by individuals needed to restore utility serve or provide any other emergency public service
