INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett has announced tighter coronavirus restrictions because of an increase in coronavirus cases in Indianapolis and Marion County.
In a press conference Thursday afternoon, Hogsett, along with Marion County Health Director Dr. Virginia Caine, mentioned that the state is seeing an increase in positive cases of coronavirus, especially among young people.
“For the first time, positive cases are skyrocketing among young adults,” Hogsett said. The Marion County Health Department says 44% of new cases are young people 20-39.
For that reason, the county has announced new restrictions that will start Friday.
The restrictions begin Friday, July 24 and include:
- Social gatherings are limited to 50 people — this includes weddings, banquets, club meetings, etc.
- Indoor religious ceremonies may be held at 50% capacity.
- Outdoor religious ceremonies may continue without restriction.
- Bars in Indianapolis that do not serve food will be closed through August 12.
- Cultural, entertainment, and sports venues are limited to 25% capacity. If that capacity means that you’ll be hosting an event with more than 250 attendees, special permission is required in advance from the health department.
- Restaurants may operate at 50% indoor dining capacity. All restaurants must close in-person dining between midnight and 5 a.m.
- Personal services like tattoo parlors, nail salons, and hair salons may operate by appointment only.
- Gyms and fitness centers may operate at 25% capacity.
Hogsett says when it comes to schools getting ready for the fall semester, in-person classes must not resume until at least August 5. Otherwise, school facilities may continue operation under CDC guidelines.
Masks are mandatory in Indianapolis, Hogsett said. The mouth and nose must be covered whenever you are around other people and cannot socially distance.
Hogsett’s message to young adults?
“If you are fortunate enough to be young and healthy, keep in mind that many of your neighbors aren’t. Please do better and mask up.”
