Coronavirus: Smithfield Schools, Town Offices to Close

SMITHFIELD, RI —Smithfield town offices will close on Monday, while schools are closed through at least the end of the week as part of a state directive issued on Friday, as preventive measures against the spread of the coronavirus. All activities and public traffic at the Smithfield Senior Center will also be restricted.

Senior Bus Services will continue for individuals without any symptoms of illness who have not been asked to self-quarantine.

Town officials said as of Friday there were no known or suspected cases of coronavirus in Smithfield, but that the hope is mitigate the spread of disease should it be detected in town through proactive action.

"We understand that it can be disappointing when plans are changed and events are cancelled but we appreciate the patience and flexibility of our residents while these efforts are implemented to maintain the health of the Smithfield community," Smithfield officials said. "It is important to note that everyone has a role in maintaining a healthy public environment and the town is encouraging all of its residents to take the necessary steps to prevent infection from the coronavirus and other respiratory viruses."

Smithfield officials announced they have also taken the following steps:

• Town Council Meeting – Canceled: The March 17thSmithfield Town Council meeting has been cancelled.
• Smithfield Public Schools: Important Notice: The Governor, RIDE, and RIDOH are moving the April vacation from April 13-17 to this coming week, March 16 — 20. This is to give school and central office staff time to finalize long-distance learning plans and prepare for potential virtual learning weeks. We have asked teachers to distribute any packets they have developed for virtual learning as well as Chromebooks for students in grades 3-5 in preparation for potential virtual weeks. Full school info on their website
• Smithfield Municipal Ice Rink: Effective 2:00 pm on Friday, March 13th the Smithfield Municipal Ice Rink will be closed until Friday, March 27th. The Ice Rink will reopen, pending the approval of the Town Manager, on Saturday, March 28th at 6:00 am.
• Smithfield Municipal Court – Cancelled: The March 19th Municipal Court Hearings have been cancelled.
• Most Board and Commission meetings suspended for the remainder of the month of March. The Town is taking a proactive approach to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus by suspending most Board and Commission meetings for the remainder of the month of March. The only Boards or Commissions that are meeting at this time are the School Committee and the Charter Review Commission. The situation will continue to be monitored and a decision will be made as to whether meetings will resume as previously scheduled in April.
• Maintaining constant contact with the Rhode Island Department of Health, including a weekly conference call and following their recommendations and guidance.
• All town and school maintenance staff are thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces such as tables, doorknobs, light switches, railings, countertops, desks, phones, keyboards, and bathroom fixtures.
• All community events and programs are being monitored and addressed accordingly and may include cancelling or rescheduling.

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