City of Gastonia issued the following announcement on Sept. 30.
This page was last updated on Oct. 1, 2020.
The City of Gastonia is complying with the State of North Carolina’s orders that are intended to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. Gov. Roy Cooper has announced that the state will be in Phase 3 from Oct. 2 through 23, 2020.
Face coverings continue to be required in public, indoors or outdoors, where it is not possible to remain 6 feet from other people. Detailed information about the face covering requirements and Phase 3 guidelines are available on the City’s website.
- The interiors of all City buildings will remain closed to the public until further notice.
- Utilities
- Executive orders by the governor of North Carolina temporarily halted disconnection of utility service for nonpayment in the spring and early summer of 2020. However, customers are still required to pay for the water, sewer service and electricity they used during this time.
- The City of Gastonia and Two Rivers Utilities have resumed normal collection procedures on past-due accounts.
- Transit Service
- Free fares on City buses continue through Oct. 31. (Riders are asked to make essential trips only and are to wear face coverings.)
- Parks and Recreation
- Parks, greenways, trails, playgrounds and open spaces in City parks are open sunrise to sunset. Visitors are to maintain a social distance of 6 feet.
- Public restrooms are open 8 a.m.-7 -p.m.
- Drinking fountains remain turned off. Please bring your own water.
- Athletic fields and courts at parks facilities are open for passive recreation. Limits on contact sports. No organized practices or games without authorization.
- Picnic shelters open to groups of up to 50 people or the shelter maximum, whichever is lower.
- Rankin Lake boathouse is open Saturdays and Sundays.
- Lineberger Park miniature train is running on Saturdays and Sundays.
- Skeet and Trap Range is open six days a week, closed on Wednesdays.
- Community Centers have reopened for some activities. Click the link to learn more.
- Parks and Recreation administrative offices are closed to the public.
- Regular cleanings and social distancing guidelines will be followed at all Parks facilities.
- Police and Fire Departments
- Front doors of Gastonia Police Department remain locked until further notice. Visitors needing assistance can call the GPD front desk at 704-866-6702.
- All fire stations remain closed to the public.
- Schiele Museum & Nature Trail
- The museum is open. Visitors must reserve tickets in advance, wear face coverings and follow social distancing guidelines.
- The Schiele Nature Trail is open. Outdoor exhibits are open with an Educational Adventure ticket.
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