IRVINE, Calif. (March 17, 2020): Today, City of Irvine officials issued a proclamation declaring a local emergency, announced the closure of City Hall, and took additional steps to protect the public and prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
“We want our community to know that the City is taking every step necessary to safeguard the health and well-being of our residents and businesses,” stated Irvine Mayor Christina Shea. “The City of Irvine is an innovative and diverse community. We ask that you to follow the State and Federal guidelines. Even though they are not mandated, we encourage you to exercise them to the best of your ability. By respecting these preventative measures, we are protecting ourselves and each other, doing our part to slow the progression of COVID-19.”
Local Emergency Proclamation: The local emergency proclamation will go into effect on Wednesday, March 18, enhancing the City’s ability to access state and federal funding for COVID-19 response.
City Hall Closure: City Hall will be closed to the public, effective Wednesday, March 18. Limited City staff will remain available to maintain essential services online, via telephone, and/or via video conference. The Irvine Police Department remains open, but the public is strongly encouraged to call or email before coming to the station.
Irvine Animal Care Center: The Irvine Animal Care Center will be open on an appointment-only basis. No drop-in services shall be available. Community members can call the Center at 949-724-7740 to make an appointment.
After School and Spring Break Programs: Given the closures of the Irvine Unified School District, Santa Ana Unified School District, and Tustin Unified School District, after school programs are and spring break programs are canceled.
Community Centers: All City of Irvine Community Centers shall be closed to the public. This includes, William Woollett Jr. Aquatics Center and Northwood Aquatic Center, Irvine Fine Arts Center, Irvine Child Resource Center (CRC), and all public facilities at the Orange County Great Park, including the Visitors Center, Artists Studio, and Art Gallery.
These measures are in addition to actions the City Council put in place at an emergency City Council meeting on March 12. The Council closed senior centers, canceled all City-sponsored community events through the end of April, including the Great Park Balloon and Carousel, and canceled all adult recreation programs, as well as indoor and outdoor youth recreation programs through April 30.
“The changes in work and home life caused by COVID-19 are significant and evolving,” City Manager John Russo said. “These additional operational modifications have been devised with a goal of protecting all City employees and community members, while continuing to provide public service. The declaration of local emergency will not affect services provided by the Irvine Police Department, Building Inspections, and Code Enforcement. We are asking for the community’s assistance, understanding, and patience, as we navigate these unprecedented times together.”
For a complete list of measures in effect and for regular updates on this rapidly evolving situation, visit cityofirvine.org.