Bridgewater First Selectman Curtis Read says over the past two weeks towns in the region have seen an influx of people from New York and elsewhere.  He has noticed some blame and vitriol on Facebook about these so-called “Corona Refugees” leaving congested areas where the virus is spreading rapidly. 

Read acknowledged concerns that with more people using local recreation areas, like public trails and grocery stores, they may soon be overwhelmed.  But he says they can't blame New York City residents for coming to their weekend or summer homes to get away from the epicenter of the public health emergency. 

A strong recommendation is for new arrivals to self-quarantine for 14 days, and for everyone to maintain a 6 foot “social distance.”  Bridgewater has taken the precaution of closing down the Recreation Area playground and basketball court.

Read says there may be additional closings if non-residents keep flooding public resources.