Murfreesboro reopens in phases

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WTVF) — Murfreesboro, like many other Tennessee Cities, is slowly reopening amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The city shut down its offices and services when Gov. Bill Lee issued his "Safer-At-Home" order back in March. On April 28, Mayor McFarland released guidance on relaxing restrictions under the city's “Safer at Home Reopening Guidelines.”

The mayor advised local non-essential businesses to resume commerce safely while maintaining social distancing. The guidance included Parks and Recreation facilities, some of which reopened May 4, 2020.

“While I’m pleased to announce that City Hall and other City facilities will resume public operations under the lifting of Governor Lee’s order and phased modifications, we need to stay the course and remain vigilant,” said Mayor Shane McFarland. “Some restrictive measures, especially for vulnerable populations, remain appropriate. Everyone should continue to observe social distancing, wear face coverings in public, and practice good hygiene.”

Below is a list of pertinent opening information of City operations and facilities:

• City Schools closed for the remainder of the school year. Visit http://www.cityschools.net/ [cityschools.net] for information.
• Rover buses have continued to operate during the emergency with temporary route changes to Memorial Blvd. implemented on March 18. Rover continues to operate the full schedule with CDC recommended cleaning and disinfectant measures in place. Rover advises all passengers to continue social distancing and encourages use of face coverings for personal protection. For more information, visit http://www.murfreesborotn.gov/248/Public-Transit---Rover-Bus-System [murfreesborotn.gov].
• Murfreesboro Electric’s main lobby remains closed to walk-in traffic, with reopening to be announced at a later date. During modified operations, MED has provided customers with drive-in, online, phone-in and web app service. For electronic pay, visit www.MurfreesboroElectric.com [murfreesboroelectric.com].
• Murfreesboro Water Resources customer service lobby will reopen May 6 after being closed to only drive-through and online payment service. Visit www.murfreesborotn.gov/MWRD [murfreesborotn.gov] for electronic billing or call (615) 848-3209, Option 1.
• City Court in-person proceedings will reopen effective Thursday, May 7 with only 10 persons allowed in the courtroom at a time after being closed since March 13. Call the Clerk’s office at 615-890-2142 for more information.
• Parks & Recreation Main Office reopened May 4 after being closed since March 23.
• Indoor recreation facilities reopened May 4 with limited activities. For details on Parks & Recreation facilities, visit https://www.murfreesborotn.gov/1700/Cancellations-and-Closures [murfreesborotn.gov].
• Golf Department resumed modified play (walking only) at Old Fort Golf Course March 26. Golf carts and the driving range were available beginning Monday, May 4. Bloomfield Links parking lot also reopened May 4^th. The VA Golf Course reopened May 4^th. The clubhouse at both Old Fort and the VA remain closed. More information at www.oldfortgolfclub.com [oldfortgolfclub.com].
• Buildings with modified access during the crisis have eased restrictions:

• The Police Department lobby remains open. The public should call Records for copies of reports and continue to use Teleserve if feasible.
• The Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department Administrative Office reopened to the public Monday, May 4. Fire stations are open to the public, but no public tours are being hosted at this time.
• Fleet Services lobby reopened to the public, Monday, May 4.
• The Solid Waste Department lobby reopened to the public, Monday, May 4.
• The Street Department reopened to the public, Monday, May 4.

• Since April 16, City Council meetings have been conducted electronically with no physical public access in order to protect public health, safety and welfare in light of the coronavirus and to comply with CDC guidelines. Citizens were strongly encouraged to watch meetings on CityTV, the City’s Facebook page, YouTube, Roku and Apple TV. Public Hearings on May 7, 2020, will be held in person in City Council Chambers. Social distancing measures will be followed. Visit http://tn-murfreesboro2.civicplus.com/1709/Public-Hearings-May-7-2020 [tn-murfreesboro2.civicplus.com].
• For information on public meetings, Boards and Commissions, including electronic viewing on CityTV and online platforms, visit the City’s website homepage at: http://www.murfreesborotn.gov/ [murfreesborotn.gov].