BALTIMORE — Baltimore Mayor Jack Young is urging people to not "throw a big party" and to avoid large crowds as he made it clear the stay-at-home order is still in effect ahead of Memorial Day weekend.
“Please Baltimore! This holiday weekend, please do not throw a big party," he said "Keep your celebrations small with just the people who live in the house with you."
During a Friday news conference, Mayor Young didn't give any indication when the city will be ready to reopen. But he said it would be irresponsible to lift the stay-at-home order at the moment.
"I understand that people are losing businesses, people are losing jobs. I want to do everything I can to help with that, but I want to make sure we are not putting people at risk," Mayor Young said.
Baltimore Police Commissioner Michael Harrison said the police department will have an "amplified presence" throughout the city, using several units to ensure people and businesses are following the law.
“The department has a significant and substantial plans for this Memorial Day weekend to address potential violators of the stay-at-home and social distancing order while simultaneously addressing crime," he said.
Commissioner Harrison added, "we are working diligently to carry out the directives to keep the public safe and to minimize the spread of COVID-19".
