On Monday, March 23, Governor Baker issued an emergency order requiring all employers that do not provide "COVID-19 Essential Services" to close their physical workplaces and facilities to workers, customers, and the public from Tuesday, March 24, at 12 p.m. (noon) until Tuesday, April 7 at noon. Exempt industries include: healthcare, public safety, groceries and take-out restaurants, utilities and infrastructure, and other essential services. The Order also limits gatherings to 10 people during the state of emergency, a reduction from the 25-person limit established in an earlier order.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is issuing a two-week stay-at-home advisory outlining self-isolation and social distancing protocols. Pharmacies, grocery stores, restaurant take-out and delivery, and parks will remain open for passive activities (no groups or sports).

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
• All City of Boston playgrounds and tot lots have been temporarily closed. Parks will remain open for passive use, but we encourage everyone to practice social distancing while enjoying nature. Maintenance in our parks will continue.
• All Boston Public Schools are closed from March 17 through April 27. Read the press release. With schools closed to students, the City will continue to provide free breakfast and lunch meals to all Boston students. View a map of meal sites for children and youth.
• All Boston Public Library locations are closed until further notice.
• All Boston Centers for Youth & Families pools, gyms, and fitness centers are closed. By this Wednesday, March 18, all BCYF programming will be suspended. Only select BCYF centers will be open for youth meal distribution during school closures.
• Starting on March 17, the City is suspending all regular activity at construction sites in Boston.
• Starting on March 17, the MBTA is reducing its services. Visit the MBTA website for more details.
• Governor Baker issued an emergency order limiting gatherings to 25 people and prohibiting on-premises consumption of food or drink at bars and restaurants, beginning on March 17 and effective through April 5. The Governor's order will be in effect in Boston beginning March 17. Read the City of Boston Licensing Board advisory.
• The 2020 Boston Marathon has been postponed until Monday, September 14, 2020. For more information, please visit the Boston Athletic Association (BAA) website.