In December 2019, a novel (new) coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2 ('the virus") was first detected and subsequently began causing outbreaks of the coronavirus disease COVID-19 that spread globally. The virus is easily transmitted through person to person contact, especially in group settings. As a result, the Federal Government, State of Texas, Dallas County, and the Town of Addison issued a series of declarations and orders to take measures to slow the spread of the virus and protect the ability of public and private health care providers to handle the influx of potential new patients and safeguard public health and safety.
The President of the United States issued a Proclamation Declaring a National Emergency Concerning the Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) on March 13, 2020. The Texas Governor followed with a State of Disaster Declaration for the State of Texas on March 13, 2020.
Between March 23 and April 21, 2020, a series of orders from the Dallas County Judge were issued pertaining to the closure of nonessential businesses, mask and social distancing requirements, and shelter-in-place orders to prevent the spread of the virus.
On April 23, 2020:
- The Dallas County Judge issued a revised order to be consistent with the Governor's Order, which removed elective surgery language, updates language on religious and worship services, and requires schools to be closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year.
Between April 27, 2020 and May 26, 2020 the Governor of Texas began to issue several Executive Orders to begin safely opening Texas businesses. Executive Order No. GA 18 prompted the strategic reopening of services, which specified retail services that are not "essential services" that could be provided through pickup or delivery. It also allowed the reopening of dine-in restaurant services, for restaurants that operate at up to 25 percent of the total listed occupancy of the restaurant. Movie theaters, museums, and libraries were also allowed to reopen with similar restrictions. This order was followed by several others targeted at incrementally opening nonessential businesses.
On June 3, 2020:
- The Governor of Texas issued Executive Order GA 26, the third phase of reopening Texas, and provided an updated list of what types of businesses can resume or expand capacity and when. This included bars, restaurants, amusement parks, carnivals, and a special provision for Fourth of July outdoor celebrations.
On June 16, 2020:
- Governor Greg Abbott and Executive Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs of the University of Texas (UT) System John Zerwas, MD, provided an update on Texas' hospital capacity. The Governor noted that despite an uptick in positive cases, there continues to be abundant hospital capacity. He also urged all Texans to continue to do their part to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and look out for the health of themselves and those around them.
The Town has taken the following actions:
- The closure of all Town facilities for public access has been extended.
- All in-person Addison Athletic Club camps and classes for April and May period have been canceled.
- The Addison Athletic Club reopened to the public on May 18, 2020 with modifications to adhere to State and County orders. Third-party outside exercise programs are being held virtually at the discretion of the vendor.
- The Addison Conference and Theatre Centre (ACTC) will remain closed.
- Special Events: The May Addison After Dark Event, Boots Brews & BBQ, has been canceled.
- Taste Addison has been canceled.
- Parks and Public Works crews are continuing their work to maintain the Town’s assets.
- The Town of Addison has taken (and will continue to take) actions to prevent the spread of the virus. Everyone is encouraged to follow Social Distancing recommendations.
For more information on the previous updates from the Town related to the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit the Town’s website www.AddisonTexas.net/covid19. |