Somerville expands testing, issues mandatory advisory for face masks

SOMERVILLE, Mass. — Starting Wednesday, Somerville’s facial covering advisory will become mandatory.

It was announced on Tuesday by Mayor Joseph Curtatone and the Somerville Board of Health.

“Anyone 2 years of age or older must wear a mask or facial covering in all indoor and outdoor public spaces,” explained Curtatone.

The advisory has unanimous support from the City Council.

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Starting Wednesday, face coverings are required in all public spaces in #Somerville. Can be a medical mask or a piece of cloth, just cover up. It will prevent the spread of #COVID19 to our most vulnerable residents.https://t.co/wMrS6vlCn3 pic.twitter.com/1HgvjHsUhz
— Joseph A. Curtatone (@JoeCurtatone) April 27, 2020

Somerville Police can issue a $300 fine to residents who violate the advisory after a one-week grace period.

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“For those who willfully do not want to comply, it will be necessary that we have a fine as a proper deterrent because at the end fo the day it’s about keeping people safe,” said Curtatone.

This news comes as the city expands its testing to all residents.

“We are the most densely populated city in New England and we, fortunately, have been on top of this from the beginning,” said Somerville City Council President Matt McLaughlin.

Residents are urged to be diligent to help slow the spread.

“You have to remember that even if you test negative, you still have to act if you were positive,” said Dr. Assaad Sayah, CEO of Cambridge Health Alliance.

The city’s coronavirus testing site first opened across from Somerville Hospital on March 18.

At the time, it was only serving Cambridge Health Alliance patients, but it will soon be open to all.

“We don’t differentiate who’s going to show up. Anybody can show up. Anybody with regardless of their inability to pay or insurance status, background or immigration status,” explained Sayah.

It’s a drive-thru testing site and the Crown Street parking lot will eventually expand to take walk-ups and bicyclists.

“We are working tirelessly to interrupt the transmission of the person to person,” said Curtatone.

The Somerville Hospital site will be open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Officials say an appointment is required.