CBJ requires public to wear face coverings in libraries & public buses
To prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Juneau, the public is now required to wear cloth face coverings on Capital Transit buses, CAPITAL AKcess vans, and all three branches of the Juneau Public Libraries. This safety measure adheres to an emergency ordinance passed last night by the Juneau Assembly. Updates on additional CBJ facilities that will require the public to wear cloth face coverings are forthcoming.
The Juneau community has been able to flatten the curve by social distancing, hunkering down, and frequently washing hands. As the economy reopens, people need to take additional precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, like wearing a cloth face covering when you’re within six feet of a non-household member. Individuals who are infected with COVID-19 but are asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic may unknowingly spread the disease. Your cloth face covering is meant to protect other people in case you’re infected; their face covering protects you.
CBJ will post signage when a cloth face covering is required in a CBJ facility and provide cloth face coverings to people who do not have one. The ordinance creates exemptions, for example, for children and for people with disabilities. If a person refuses to wear a cloth face covering and the person is not exempt, CBJ may deny the service or transit ride.
The ordinance does not apply to privately owned businesses or private property, but people are strongly encouraged to wear a cloth face covering when entering a business that is open to the public. The Assembly strongly urges the use of cloth face coverings or a physical barrier (i.e. Plexiglas separator) for businesses with employees that interact with the public, especially grocery stores, gas stations, and retail stores. Read the ordinance here.
As a reminder, Bartlett Regional Hospital’s universal masking policy has been in place since April 7 and will remain in place for the foreseeable future. Under the policy, visitors are required to bring a face covering and wear it at all times. Visitors not complying with the policy are not allowed in the hospital. However, patients who seek care in the Emergency room will always be cared for and provided a mask if needed.