LAFAYETTE — Lafayette Mayor-President Josh Guillory announced some new restrictions he'll put into place as the coronavirus pandemic continues.
In his press conference Guillory said that drive-thru testing for the virus will begin Wednesday at the Cajundome. He said he supported the Governor's proclamation, but is working on getting restaurants authorization to deliver 24 hours a day if they choose.
Other changes include a curfew for unaccompanied minors (not adults) from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Gyms, city golf courses, and health clubs will also be forced to close. Gas stations and grocery stores will not be affected.
The following is a short break down on the restrictions and closures which will take effect at midnight and last until March 29:
- Bars, movie theaters, and fitness centers will close.
- Restaurants will no longer serve dine-in customers. Restaurants may only serve via drive-thru and delivery. Restaurants are allowed to operate 24 hours per day if they choose.
- An 8:00 p.m. - 6:00 a.m. curfew will go into effect for unaccompanied minors beginning at 8 p.m. this evening. (Minors that work will be considered on a case by case basis)
“Limiting businesses is not taken lightly, but aggressive steps are important and necessary as government responds to this public health emergency. I’d like to assure the people of Lafayette Parish that we would not be taking these serious precautionary measures unless we felt that they were absolutely necessary to protect our community from COVID-19. With a virus of this caliber, decisions need to be made quickly to ensure the safety of the public.” Mayor-President Josh Guillory said.
There are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Lafayette Parish. This is expected to change within the coming days.
According to the Louisiana Department of Health, the best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to practice social distancing and good hygiene.
