Bloomington, Indiana – Bloomington Mayor John Hamilton is fast tracking COVID-19 prevention measures announced Friday.
In a statement released by the mayor’s office Monday, Hamilton’s executive order bumps up the requirement dates set by the county for within city limits.
The order relating to the size of gatherings at private and public events, as well as in bars and restaurants the county set for Friday, July 31 at noon, will take effect for the city, Thursday, July 23 at noon.
“Our top priority has to remain protecting public health, and we’ve learned that moving with speed can make a difference,” Hamilton said in the statement. “I appreciate that accelerating these new protocols may cause some hardship to some of us, but I would simply emphasize that we are battling a deadly and difficult virus.”
Private gatherings are limited to 50 people and include social distancing with face coverings. Gatherings at public venues are limited to 100 people indoors, or 150 outdoors.
Service at bars, nightclubs, and restaurants is limited to 10 people per table with proper social distancing. Bar service is not allowed.
Enforcement may come from random visits or complaints. The city could shut down venues if they’re not following the new restrictions. Social gathering enforcement may include dispersal.
Mandatory face coverings took effect Friday, July 17. Hamilton said accelerating protocols will help prepare for the upcoming influx of IU students from around the country and the absence of testing requirements for students living off campus.
