Message from Mayor Duke A. Bennett – City of Terre Haute

Citizens of Terre Haute,

We have come a long way over the past several weeks dealing with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it has now prepared us for what is next - moving forward. Working together, we have accomplished a lot, and together, we will continue to do even more.

As Mayor of the City of Terre Haute, I am extremely humbled at the care, attentiveness and selfless acts that our healthcare industry and every essential worker has contributed to ensure the functionality of the city and the protection of our people. With this, I am also grateful for our citizenry who prioritized social distancing and took the seriousness of the “stay-at-home” order to heart. It is because of all of our efforts that we are able to move forward and see a bright future.

The Governor's five-stage rollout for getting the state back on track is a roadmap for our state, region and the Terre Haute community. I stand with the Governor, and I encourage the same consideration and vigilance you have exhibited during the state's “stay-at-home” order to carry into Indiana’s “Back on Track” plan. The details are outlined at www.backontrack.in.gov.

As for the City of Terre Haute government, I wanted to provide an update on how we will operate in conjunction with the most recent Executive Order from Governor Holcomb. The following information should help lay out the upcoming steps of our plan:

Beginning May 11^th

• All City buildings will remain closed to the public.
• City employees are working but some will continue working remotely. You may call 311 for assistance with city government.
• City parks are open, but playgrounds and restrooms remain closed.
• Golf courses remain open and continue following all CDC guidelines.

Beginning May 24^th

• All city park playgrounds, restrooms and indoor facility rentals will open to the public.

On May 25^th

• Memorial Day services at Woodlawn and Highland Lawn Cemeteries have been cancelled.

Beginning May 26^th

• All city employees will be back in their normal assigned work locations.
• City Hall offices along with all other city locations will begin limited public access from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm each business day.

Beginning June 8^th

• Deming Park pool will open (weather permitting).

Beginning June 14^th

• Public access restrictions will be lifted at all city locations. Normal business hours will resume with full public access available.
• The Parks Department Nature Center, Torner Center and Native American Museum will reopen.
• All city park programs, softball leagues and the Deming Park train will begin operating.

July 4^th

• The annual fireworks show will be conducted at Fairbanks Park.

Note: This schedule was created in conjunction with the Governor’s “Back on Track” plan and timeline and is subject to change based on new information and CDC guidance.

We have been very fortunate as a community to keep our COVID-19 numbers at a very manageable level so far. With retail opening back up this week, places of worship opening this weekend and restaurants and personal services (hair and nail salons, spas, tattoo parlors, etc.) opening up next week, now is not the time to let our guard down. It will be extremely important to continue to social distance from others, wash your hands multiple times each day, wear a mask when in public places and stay at home if you are sick. Those over 65 years old and those with high-risk health conditions should continue to “stay at home” as much as possible to continue protecting yourself from infection.

It is our responsibility to ensure we get “back on track” safely and are prepared to welcome the bright future ahead. I look forward to gathering again soon and celebrating this community, the patriotism of our citizens, our frontline workers and all that is to come.

Stay safe and stay well!

Duke A Bennett, Mayor
City of Terre Haute