Haverhill is going to greater lengths to discourage people from visiting public buildings and will lock most doors to City Hall Thursday.
Those with appointments may enter City Hall through only the rear door facing the parking lot. The handicapped entrance on the Main Street side of the building will also be open. According to an internal memorandum, a police officer will be stationed at the rear door to assist residents, but also to encourage online transactions and appointments.
Besides City Hall, most city government buildings are closed to walk-ins, but open to those with advance appointments. Buildings include the police station, Department of Public Works, Waste Water Treatment Plant, Haverhill Public Library and schools. The Citizen’s Center, 10 Welcome St., is open, but appointments are encouraged.
In other related updates:
Market Basket has set special senior shopping hours at all locations for those above the age of 60. Senior store hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 5:30-7 a.m.
Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley and the North Shore is also reminding residents the online service Instacart enables residents to shop online with the same grocers they usually visit and receive next-day delivery. The company is at instacart.com. Elder Services also administers the local Meals on Wheels home-delivery program for people at least 60 years of age or qualified adults with disabilities who are determined to be “homebound.” More information is available by calling 800-892-0890.
Haverhill Bank branch drive-ups are open, but inside appointments are currently by appointment only.
Macy’s physical stores are closed until at least through March 31. The company says it will provide benefits and compensation to affected employees.