Dear Residents of Bristol,
Today, I want to share with you the latest information on COVID-19, and give you an update on our local efforts.
Earlier this afternoon, Governor Gina Raimondo signed an executive order stating that effective tomorrow, March 17th:
- Gatherings of 25 people or more are prohibited in Rhode Island until further notice, and;
- Any restaurant, bar or establishment that offers food or drinks shall not permit on-premise consumption of food or drinks. Establishments may continue to offer food and non-alcoholic beverages for take-out and delivery in accordance with the social distancing protocols and guidelines set forth by RIDOH;
We understand these are extraordinary measures, and we want to thank our businesses for their cooperation and for providing delivery and take out during this difficult time. If you’re a business owner and you need assistance, please contact Bristol’s Economic Development Coordinator at cvita[email protected] or visit Commerce Rhode Island’s resource page at www.commerceri.com/covid-19.
Here are the most recent steps we have taken to respond to COVID-19 concerns:
- The Town of Bristol has activated its local Emergency Operations Center at the Bristol Fire Headquarters (4 Annawamscutt Dr, Bristol, RI 02809).
- The Town has established a COVID-19 Task Force that is actively doing outreach to our vulnerable populations through the Rhode Island Special Needs Registry.
- The Town has established a Bristol COVID-19 hotline. If you have a question or are in need of special assistance, please call 401-253-2310. This hotline will be staffed during normal business hours (8:00 AM-4:00 PM Monday-Friday). The Town will address specific needs on a case-by-case basis.
- The Town has installed a new drop-box outside Bristol Town Hall to allow residents to submit applications and other documents securely.
Additionally, I would like to share that the Bristol-Warren Regional School District will be offering free Grab and Go meals to all children under the age of eighteen (18) beginning tomorrow. Meals can be picked up Monday-Friday between 9:00 AM-11:00 AM at the following Bristol location:
- Colt Andrews School, 570 Hope Street, Bristol, RI 02809
Over the past week, the Town has received calls from residents who have expressed interest in volunteering. Right now, the most important thing residents can do is check on relatives, friends, and neighbors that are within the COVID-19 vulnerable population. This includes residents over the age of 60 or those with underlying medical conditions. If it’s determined that volunteers are needed the Town will make an announcement seeking assistance.
Lastly, I wish to express that our success in preventing a community spread is dependent on everyone following the guidance given by the RI Department of Health. Although we are facing a difficult challenge, I am confident that if we all work together we will prevail in preserving our good health and quality of life.
Additional information and details will be provided on the Town of Bristol’s website (www.bristolri.gov) and through regular updates to the Bristol Phoenix.
Sincerely,
Steven Contente, Town Administrator