City of Newburyport Announces Emergency Mask Order for Downtown, Boardwalk and Clipper City Rail Trail

City of Newburyport Announces Emergency Mask Order for Downtown, Boardwalk and Clipper City Rail Trail.

Mayor Donna Holaday and Health Director Frank Giacalone announce a new emergency order requiring that all residents and visitors wear a face mask or cloth face covering when in downtown Newburyport, on the boardwalk and when using the Clipper City Rail Trail.

The emergency order will go in effect on Friday, Aug. 7 and remain in effect until further notice. The order applies to both indoor and outdoor spaces, and all businesses will be required to enforce this order.

All community members should also continue to practice social distancing by remaining at least 6 feet away from others and should wash or sanitize their hands frequently when in public.

“Over the last few months, we’ve seen the number of visitors to our downtown and rail trail continue to rise, making it difficult to practice proper social distancing at times, so we want to further emphasize the importance of wearing a mask or face covering,” Mayor Holaday said. “The emergency order will help to keep our community and downtown businesses and employees safe by helping to limit the spread of COVID-19. We thank you for your understanding and cooperation.”

“It’s essential that everyone take responsibility and embrace their role in preventing the spread of COVID-19 by covering their face when in public, and especially in crowded areas like downtown,” Health Director Giacalone said.

Those under the age of two or with certain health conditions identified by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) are exempt from the requirement. Masks do not need to be worn while eating or when sitting in personal vehicles.

Signage will be added downtown to remind residents and visitors of the requirement, and “mask ambassadors” will be downtown to hand out masks for those who may need them.

To view the emergency order, click here.