COVID-19

COVID-19 Official Updates

The City of Salem has been monitoring the potential spread of COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic and, like you, we have been processing a great deal of information. The safety of our citizens, school children, and visitors is always our number one priority from the Salem Civic Center to City Hall. Our Emergency Management team members are in constant contact with the Virginia Department of Health, the Roanoke-Alleghany Health Department, and area health professionals at our local hospitals. During this time of uncertainty, we encourage you to monitor this site for official city details on closings or cancellations.

If you feel you have been exposed to the virus, please call the Virginia Department of Health at 877-275-8343.

View for complete Salem School Division information.

Tuesday, March 1, 2022

The City of Salem informed ts government employees on this date that masks are now optional based on new CDC guidelines. The new metrics place Salem in the "Medium" category where masking is not considered a necessary mitigation strategy to curtail the spread of COVID-19. In addition, Salem City Schools made masks optional for students and employees on Monday, February 28.

Thursday, January 20, 2022

The Roanoke City and Alleghany Health Districts (RCAHD) have announced the opening of a brand new Community Testing Center (CTC) at Valley View Mall. It opened today, Thursday, January 20, and it will provide free Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing for COVID-19 to increase testing access in response to public demand. The CTC will operate by appointment only and will be open from 9 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Thursday. Go to the Virginia Department of Health website to find an appointment. Appointments will typically be released 24 hours ahead of each day's event. CTC test results will be automatically sent via text or email message to individuals being tested, usually within a few days, based on the information provided in the appointment system. PCR test results are very effective in detecting an active COVID-19 infection, even if asymptomatic.

Monday, January 10, 2022

Drive-through testing will once again take place at the Taliaferro Complex in Salem on Tuesday. Please note that the time and location are both different this week. Testing runs from 9 am to Noon. The location is the parking lot at Salem Football Stadium. Please enter the complex's far left entrance on Roanoke Boulevard to help maintain an orderly flow of traffic.

Tuesday, January 4, 2022

COVID-19 testing will take place in the Salem Civic Center parking lot today, Tuesday, January 4, from 1 pm to 5 pm. The test session is being expanded to four hours to the community demand. PCR test results will be available in three days or less.

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Tuesday night's testing event at the Salem Civic Center provided evidence of the unprecedented demand for testing. Over 200 people were tested at the event and unfortunately, demand exceeded the supply. Given this demand, the Roanoke City and Alleghany Health Districts (RCAHD) will have a limited supply of free COVID-19 Rapid Antigen at-home test kits for first-come, first-served distribution on Thursday, December 30, beginning at 11 am at the Salem Civic Center. Due to increased demand, test kits are expected to be out of stock very quickly. The approximately 300 test kits are intended to be used for individuals who are seeking testing because they either have symptoms or know they were exposed to a positive case within the previous five days. Individuals will be asked to self-attest that they meet these criteria for testing. Individuals must be present to receive a test kit. Only one test kit will be distributed per person who meets the criteria while supplies last. Users will need a smartphone in order to receive results.

Tuesday, December 28, 2021

Drive-through COVID-19 testing will take place this Tuesday afternoon, December 28, in the Salem Civic Center parking lot from 3 pm to 5 pm. These are PCR tests and you should receive results in three days or less.

Thursday, December 2, 2021

Get a gift and get a vaccination at the same time. Along with our fabulous vendors, the Virginia Department of Health will be set up at the Salem Farmers Market to offer free COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters this Saturday, December 4. Vaccinations will be available from 11 am to 2 pm.

Monday, November 22, 2021

Vaccinations and boosters are available this week at the Valley View Community Vaccination Center, but the hours are a little different, due to Thanksgiving. The site is located on the first floor of the former Sears at Valley View Mall and here are this week's hours: Monday from 10 am to 7:30 pm, Tuesday from 10 am to 7:30 pm, and Wednesday from 10 am to 6 pm (Closed: Thursday through Sunday).

Wednesday, November 18, 2021

Thanks to a partnership with the Virginia Department of Health, The Salem Public Library now has COVID-19 rapid at-home tests available for free. Ask the front desk to pick yours up today. Get results in 15 minutes.

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

The City of Salem's Holiday celebrations will return to "normal" in early December. The annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade will officially get the festivities started on Friday, December 3, at 6 pm at the Salem Farmers Market. The annual Gingerbread Festival and Salem Crafty Christmas will take place the following day on Saturday, December 4. The Salem Civic Center also will host the Salem Holiday Market on December 11 and 12.

Monday, November 1, 2021

The Salem YMCA is hosting a COVID-19 vaccination event on Thursday, November 4. You can preregister or simply walk in and get your vaccine or booster shot. The event takes place this Thursday from 4 pm to 6 pm.

Thursday, September 23. 2021

Health Professionals and Fire and EMS personnel from the entire region, including SalemFire and EMS Chief John Prillaman, gathered today at the Berglund to let you know Emergency Rooms and Hospitals are running out of space. Here are some of the main points from the unified message. If you have a non-life-threatening illness or injury, or you simply need a COVID-19 test, please consider primary care, urgent care or retail pharmacy, instead of jamming-up emergency rooms. With the rapid spread of the Delta variant, COVID-19 has been relentless and unforgiving and the impact that the virus has had on our region weighs on all of us. It's even more difficult when preventable emergency room traffic complicates delivering care to those in true need. Health officials are here to protect you, but they need your help. The Roanoke and Alleghany Health Districts, of which Salem, Roanoke County, and Roanoke are members, saw over 1,200 new cases just last week and more than 400 in the last two days. Physicians continue to urge the public to get vaccinated and wear a mask. The face covering is needed, at this time, regardless of your vaccination status. Taking these steps could save a loved one in your family who may not be able to get into an emergency room otherwise. Watch the news conference here.

Tuesday, September 14, 2021

Starting today, and continuing with each Tuesday through October 12, the Salem Civic Center will host Drive-Thru COVID-19 Testing in the parking lot. The tests will be available on each date from 4 pm to 7 pm. Positive cases, related mainly to the Delta Variant, have increased dramatically in the past month. Take care of yourself and your neighbor.

Thursday, June 17, 2021

The Commonwealth has announced the "Return to Earn" grant program which is designed to assist small businesses by providing new hires up to $1,000 to support their transition back into the workforce. This initiative has provided $105,624 for small businesses located within the Counties of Alleghany, Botetourt, Craig, Franklin, or Roanoke or the Cities of Covington, Roanoke, or Salem. The Western Virginia Workforce Development Board will be administering the funding for the region. Small businesses in Salem and surrounding areas that are interested in applying for funding may visit the Virginia Career Works website to learn more about the program and to find the official application.

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

The Salem Farmers Market and VDH will host a COVID-19 vaccination event on Thursday, June 3. Johnson and Johnson shots will be available from 2 pm to 6 pm at the market.

Friday, May 14, 2021

Governor Ralph Northam lifts mask mandate to align with CDC guidelines and announces that Virginia will end COVID-19 Mitigation Measures on Friday, May 28. View the complete details of the Governor's announcement.

Tuesday, April 13, 2021

The Salem Public Library will reopen on April 26. At that time, the hours inside the building will be 1 pm to 5 pm. In addition, the library will be open from 10 am to 1 pm for contact free pick-up and also on Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm for that popular service option. If you need more information, please call 375-3089

Monday, February 15, 2021

Certain City Hall offices now open until 5 pm.

While the City of Salem still strongly encourages you to make all types of payments online, through the mail, or by simply dropping them off in the collection box at City Hall, three offices are now open to citizens from 8 am to 5 pm. The Commissioner of the Revenue, the Treasurer and Utility Collections offices are open Monday through Friday. Citizens must enter the back entrance of City Hall to access these offices. If you have any questions, please call 375-3000.

Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Governor Ralph Northam relaxed some parts of Executive Order 72, beginning March 1, 2021. View the Governor's page to see what has changed for Virginia residents.

Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Governor Ralph Northam extended and modified Executive Order 72 on February 17. For sports played indoors, spectators must be limited to 25 persons per field. For sports played outdoors, the total number of spectators cannot exceed any of the following (i) the lesser of 30% of the occupancy load of the certificate of occupancy for the venue or 250 spectators per field. Spectators must wear face coverings at all times and ten feet of physical distance must be maintained between spectators who are not Family members, Follow this LINK for a refresher on these COVID-19 restrictions.

Wednesday, January 27, 2021

Governor Ralph Northam extended Executive Order 72 at least through the end of February 2021.

Monday, January 11, 2021

Our local Health Districts announce that COVID-19 vaccinations are moving into Phase 1B on Monday, January 11, 2021.

Monday, December 21

Utility Collections has issued a bill assistance form. If you are having trouble paying your bills during COVID, we are here to help. Please fill out the form completely and contact Utility Collections if you have any questions. All Forms are due no later than January 20, 2021. You can submit forms by email to Utility Collections, place them in the drop box beside City Hall, or bring them in the Utility Collections office. You can download or pick up a copy at the Utility Collections Office on the bottom floor of City Hall, 114 N Broad Street.

Thursday, December 10

After an alarming surge in the number of positive COVID-19 cases in the Commonwealth, including SW Virginia and our Health District, Governor Ralph Northam announced several new restrictions to help curtail the spread of the virus.

Monday, November 23

The City of Salem EDA has extended the application deadline until Friday, December 4. The EDA established a second round of grants in late October to support small business recovery following the COVID-19 outbreak. These grant funds will be used to reimburse the costs of business interruption caused by required closures. One-time grants of up to $5,000 are being provided to eligible businesses on a first-come, first-served basis and are subject to the availability of funds. Applications will be accepted until December 4, 2020 or until funds are depleted. No hand-delivered applications will be accepted. Previous grant recipients are not eligible.

Friday, November 13

After a consistent rise in positive COVID-19 cases in the Commonwealth and especially in SW Virginia, Governor Ralph Northam announced several restrictions to help curtail the spread of the virus. View the information on COVID Restrictions.

Tuesday, October 27

The City of Salem EDA has established a second round of grants to support small business recovery following the COVID-19 outbreak; grant funds will be used to reimburse the costs of business interruption caused by required closures. One-time grants of up to $5,000 are being provided to eligible businesses on a first-come, first-served basis and are subject to the availability of funds. Applications will be accepted until November 30, 2020 or until funds are depleted. No hand-delivered applications will be accepted. Previous grant recipients are not eligible.

Friday, September 25

Council Passes Continuity of Government Services Ordinance.

The updated version of the ordinance, which was passed at the September 14 City Council meeting, will allow Council members to continue to meet and conduct business in a variety of ways during the ongoing pandemic. 

Monday, September 14

Salem Half Marathon Goes Completely Virtual for 2020

Salem Parks and Recreation has announced changes for the LewisGale Salem Half Marathon and the accompanying races this October 10 are now completely virtual. 

Friday, July 31

Salem Library Explands Pick-up and Call Hours

Effective July 31, the Salem Public Library is no longer open for in-person visits. The Library has expanded times for holding books for pick-up or for any information or research questions you may have. The facility is open for that type of use from 10 am to 4 pm - seven days a week. You can call 375-3089 or email a staff member.

Thursday, July 30

Chase Rice Concert Postponed

The Chase Rice concert scheduled for August 14 at Salem Memorial Ballpark has been moved to May 21, 2021. All tickets for the August 14, 2020 date will transfer to the new date. If the rescheduled show date does not work for you, refunds will be issued at the point of purchase

Thursday, July 30

Salem Half Marathon COVID-19 Update

Salem Parks and Recreation has announced changes for the LewisGale Salem Half Marathon and the accompanying races this October 10. In addition, a Virtual Race option has been added.

Wednesday, July 29

Salem Civic Center and Shriners Announce Circus Cancellation

The 62nd Kazim Shrine Circus, scheduled for October 30 to November 1, has been canceled due to ongoing concerns related to COVID-19. Ticket refunds will be honored. If tickets were purchased via Ticketmaster, the refunds will process directly to the card used. If they were purchased at the Salem Civic Center Box Office, you will need to come in for a refund. Box Office is open Monday through Friday 10 am to 6 pm. ALL Refunds for the circus must be completed by September 11.

Tuesday, July 14

Salem School Division Announces "Return to Learn" Plans for 2020 to 2021

The Salem School Board approved plans to reopen Salem City School at its July 14 Board Meeting at South Salem Elementary. View the plan to Return to Learn in Salem

Friday, July 10

Social Services Offering Financial Relief

Beginning July 13, the Roanoke County Department of Social Services will offer short-term financial assistance made possible through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). Residents of Roanoke County, Town of Vinton, and City of Salem may apply to aid in paying expenses directly related to a loss of income from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thursday, July 9

Salem Economic Development Authority Announces $500,000 Grant Program

The City of Salem Economic Development Authority (EDA), has established a $500,000 Small Business Coronavirus (COVID-19) Disaster Assistance Grant Fund Program. One-time grants of up to $5,000 are intended to support small businesses in their recovery from the impacts of the pandemic. The grants are administered by the City of Salem through its EDA and application forms will be available to print and download, starting July 13, 2020 at 8 am.

Wednesday, July 8

Senior Center and Community Activities Set for Partial Restart on July 13

Some Community Activities and certain programs at the Salem Senior Center will restart on Monday, July 13.

Wednesday, July 1

Virginia Phase Three Guidelines for COVID-19 - Governor Ralph Northam

Here are the extensive guidelines as most of Virginia moves into Phase Three of COVID-19 on July 1.

Friday, June 19

Popular Music Events Moved to Salem Memorial Ballpark

The Salem Parks and Recreation Department is excited to announce an updated plan for some of its most popular music events that have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Jazz In July, Pickin' In the Park and two editions of the popular Salem After Five concert series are relocating to Salem Memorial Ballpark in July and August. 

Monday, June 15

Salem Public Library Reopens By Appointment on June 15

The library is now open for browsing books and DVDs, computer use, printing, faxing, and more activities by appointment. To schedule an appointment you must call 540-375-3089.

  • 45-minute appointments will start at the top of every hour from 10 am-4 pm, Monday through Friday. Please enter at the side entrance.
  • Library bookdrops are open for returns, and all returns will be quarantined for safety before being available for checkout.
  • Facemasks will be available when you enter the building, and hand sanitizer will be available at multiple points throughout the building.
  • The library will be disinfected in between each appointment block. Please be sure to stay home if you feel ill or have a fever.
  • Storytime takes place on Zoom every Wednesday at 10 am!
  • The Summer Reading Program is online this year, with fun reading challenges and monthly prize drawings!

Friday, June 12

Playgrounds and Skate Park Reopen on June 12

All City of Salem playgrounds, school playgrounds, and the City of Salem Skate Park at Moyer Park will reopen to the public on Friday, June 12. If you have any questions, please call 375-3057.

  • Maintain specified social distancing at all times and avoid intentional contact with others.
  • Bring anti-bacterial wipes and hand sanitizer from home and use these products before, during and after play.
  • No congregating or gathering in groups larger than 50.
  • Do not use the equipment if you feel sick or have a temperature.
  • Be smart and respect each other 

Monday, June 8

Certain City Hall Offices Reopen on Monday, June 8

While the City of Salem still strongly encourages you to make all types of payments online, through the mail, or by simply dropping them off in the collection box at City Hall, three offices are now open to citizens, as of June 8, 2020. The Commissioner of the Revenue, the Treasurer and Utility Collections offices are now open from 9 am to 4 pm. Monday through Friday. Citizens must enter the back entrance of City Hall to access these offices. Please adhere to social distancing and visitors are strongly encouraged to wear a face covering. If you have any questions, please call 375-3000.

Tuesday, June 2

Executive Order 65 - Phase Two Guidelines - Governor Ralph Northam

This Executive Order details the guidelines as most of Virginia moves into Phase Two of COVID-19 restrictions. 

Friday, May 29

Executive Order 63 - Wearing Masks - Governor Ralph Northam

This Executive Order requiring citizens to wear masks in businesses, stores, and public places goes into effect today, May 29, 2020.

Friday, May 15

City Council Stands with Citizens and Businesses

City Council published a letter thanking citizens and businesses for their resiliency during the last two months and challenging them to support one another as we move forward. The letter asks citizens to play an active role in shaping the greatest comeback story in Salem history.

Friday, May 15

Parks and Rec Facilities Remain Closed

Playgrounds on city and school properties, the Moyer Skate Park and basketball courts throughout the city will remain closed until Monday, June 18.

Monday, May 13

Keep Your Water Supply Clean and Pure as We Reopen

With the State of Virginia set to reopen in Phase One on May 15, the Salem Water Department reminds you to flush your toilets and run your faucets, if your business or home has been vacant during this time.

Monday, May 11

2020 Salem Fair Cancelled

COVID-19 concerns and the lingering uncertainty surrounding the virus have forced the cancellation of the Fair.

Friday, May 1

Hank Williams Jr. Concert Cancelled at Salem Civic Center

Out of an abundance of caution, the October 24, Hank Williams, Jr. concert has been cancelled. Hank looks forward to seeing all his rowdy friends in Salem soon. Tickets purchased online through Ticketmaster.com will automatically be refunded by Ticketmaster to the credit/debit card used to purchase the tickets. Tickets purchased at our Box Office will be refunded when we open back to the public on/around June 10, 2020.

Monday, April 27

Transfer Stations Are Set to Reopen on May 1 for Citizens

Residents of the Cities of Salem and Roanoke, Roanoke County and the Town of Vinton can once again drop off materials at the Salem Transfer Station and the Tinker Creek Station Monday through Saturday. This is effective starting Friday, May 1, and here are the details:

Anyone exiting a vehicle must wear a face covering - Both locations return to normal hours of operation - The Free Mulch Program will resume on Monday, June 1 at the Tinker Creek site only - Household Hazardous Waste Events are still cancelled - Residential Garbage and Bulk collection will continue as usual

If you have any questions or concerns, please call the 540-857-5050 or email rvrainformation@rvra.net

Tuesday, April 21

Annual Tulip Giveaway Cancelled

The city's annual tulip giveaway has been canceled this year due to COVID-19 social distancing concerns.

Monday, April 20

Save Small Business Fund

To extend a helping hand to small businesses suffering from the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation - in partnership with Vistaprint and a coalition of supporting companies, foundations, and philanthropic donors - is working to provide financial relief through the Save Small Business Fund. The fund is providing $5,000 in short-term relief to employers across the United States. View the application here.

Monday, April 13

Council Extends Tax Due Date

Monday night, City Council voted to delay the deadline for all real estate and property taxes. Property taxes were due on May 31 and Real Estate taxes were due on June 5. Both deadlines have been extended to June 30.

Friday, April 3

New Parks and Recreation Restrictions Announced

Parks and Recreation facilities in the City of Salem will only remain open if residents do their part. In collaboration with the Salem Health Department, Virginia Department of Health, and Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation Parks and Rec has developed guidelines to assure the health and safety of our citizens.

Thursday, April 2

Schools Report Solid Start to "New Normal"

Although students are not in school buildings, school is still in session. Further, the Vision, Mission, and Core Values of the Salem City School Board have not changed even as the method of delivering the Board's mission has changed significantly.

Wednesday, April 1

Farmers Market to Remain Open

Under the latest order from the Governor, farmers markets are still permitted to operate as pre-order/pick-up locations for local foods. The Salem Farmers Market is open, but only for pre-order sales and pick-up. No walk-up sales.

The Market will have limited vendors for the foreseeable future to maintain social distancing guidance and is working on developing a method to provide the safest environment for residents to purchase healthy, local foods and support area farmers. Vendors are accepting preorders and their contact information are pinned to the top of the Market Facebook page. These are some general guidelines for the public that we have in place at the moment:

  • Do not go to the market if you are sick
  • Send only one family member to the market to pick up orders
  • Adhere to 6 feet social distancing guidelines at the market
  • Only one customer per vendor at a time
  • Do not touch market surfaces
  • No cash transactions at the market - prepay over the phone with vendors
  • No pets allowed on market grounds until further notice
  • We all love our local farmers, but please do not linger after you receive your order

The Market is eliminating the cap on SNAP matching token purchases so that those in need can stock up on healthy foods.

Tuesday, March 31

USA Olympic Softball Cancelled

The highly anticipated June 25 exhibition contest, featuring the 2020 U.S. Olympic Softball Team in Salem, at Billy Sample Field has been canceled. For ticket refunds, all tickets purchased through Ticketmaster will automatically be refunded to the card on which they were purchased. Any tickets purchased through the Salem Civic Center Box Office will be refunded to customers once the Salem Civic Center reopens to the public.

Monday, March 30

Governor Issues Temporary Stay-at-Home Order

The Virginia Governor's Office has issued an order to residents stay at home until June 10 as part of expended efforts to curtail the spread.

Friday, March 27

City Council Approves Emergency Ordinance

The Salem City Council approved an emergency ordinance for temporary changes in certain deadlines and to modify public meetings and public hearing practices and procedures.

Salem School Division Announces Updated Meal Delivery Routes

In an effort to streamline the delivery of daily meals, the Salem School Division has announced updated routes that go into effect Monday, March 30. Here is a link to the full list of updated routes and guidelines. 

40th Annual Chance Crawford Tourney Cancelled

The Salem Parks and Recreation Department announced the cancellation of the 40th Annual Chance Crawford Softball Tournament.

Thursday, March 26

Supporting Salem's Restaurant Scene

Please do your part to support our local Salem restaurants that are offering curbside pick-up, carry-out, and, in some cases, delivery options during these uncertain times. These establishments are providing a valuable service for all of us.

View a list of all restaurants in Salem. Be sure to call first to make sure the establishment is serving.

Parks and Rec Cancels Events Through May 17

Many events and programs in the Salem Parks and Recreation and Department are now CANCELLED through May 17, 2020. Click Here for a full list of all events affected.

Wednesday, March 25

Salem Civic Center Announces Rescheduled Events

The Civic Center has plenty of rescheduled show information for you at ITS WEBSITE Hank Wiiliams, Jr., for King and County, Kansas and others are now coming to Salem in the summer or fall. If you have already purchased tickets to an event, they will transfer over to the new date. If the new date does not work for you, you will receive a refund at your point of purchase, either Ticketmaster.com or the Salem Civic Center Box Office, once the building reopens.

Roanoke Regional Partnership Business Resources

The Partnership has established some links for Business Leaders in the Roanoke Region

Tuesday, March 24

Salem City School Division Announces New Building Hours

The Salem School Division was officially closed on Monday by Governor Ralph Northam. In addition, access to school buildings in Salem is further limited starting today. Schools are only open from 9 am to 1 pm and the Central Office is now open from 9 am to 3 pm. Please refer to the Division's official COVID-19 site for complete information.

Monday, March 23

Salem/Roanoke County Food Pantry Remains Open

The Food Pantry is remaining open, but are not accepting any food donations at this time. They are accepting monetary donations to purchase food themselves. They are also serving clients by phone and are no longer allowed into the lobby and will be curbside pickup only.

Roanoke Valley Resource Authority

The RVRA announced new guidelines, effective March 23. While the Salem Sanitation Department will continue to pick up your garbage and bulk items, residents will not be allowed to drop off waste at either the Salem Transfer Station on Indiana Street or the Tinker Creek Transfer Station on Hollins Road in Roanoke. In addition, Household Hazardous Waste events are canceled and the monthly free mulch program for citizens is canceled. These policies will remain in effect until further notice.

Friday, March 20

City Hall Closed to the Public

Salem City Hall is now closed. We are now requiring all departmental business in the City be done by phone or email. Please refer to phone numbers on the top of each department webpage that is relevant for your concern. If you are not sure, call 375-3000. View a full list of phone numbers in the city (PDF).

If you would like to drop off a payment in person, please put all payments in the Collection box located next to City Hall. That includes Utilities, Real Estate, Personal Property, Business License, Animal License, Parking Tickets, Fiduciary Taxes, and Estimated Income Taxes. You can also pay via mail or Online Here. If you have any questions call 375-3024.

Roanoke College Students Will Not Return for Spring Semester and May Term

Roanoke College will continue online classes and are postponing but not canceling Commencement, previously scheduled for May 2.

City Council Meeting Moved to South Salem

The March 23, 2020 Salem City Council meeting will be held at South Salem Elementary School in the cafeteria. This large space will allow for social distancing and make it possible for the meeting to be held, as scheduled. Any citizens who attend the meeting will be seated in an area that will allow them to spread out as well.

Thursday, March 19

Virginia Public Gathering Reminder

Governor Northam has told Virginians to avoid non-essential gatherings of more than 10 people. This is based on federal guidelines, but it does not include normal operations at essential services such as manufacturers, distribution centers, airports, bus and train stations, medical facilities, grocery stores or pharmacies. Here is the full release from the Governor.

Salem After Five

The first Salem After Five event of 2020 scheduled for Friday, April 24 has been moved to Saturday September 19. The band will still be fan favorite Domino.

Utility Sign-Up Procedure Changed

With City Hall access limited, here are new instructions on how to sign up for utilities. View the form and learn how to sign up. The form is also available for pick-up outside the back entrance of City Hall. Call 540-375-3021, ext. 1 if you have any questions.

Wednesday, March 18

Plans in Place for Salem City Schools Starting March 23

The "New Normal" for school children in Salem begins on Monday and teachers are excited to welcome their students to a virtual classroom.

Governor Northam's efforts for Small Business Relief

Gov. Northam Requests Statewide Economic Injury Disaster Loan Declaration from U.S. Small Business Administration - "We are taking action to support small businesses and nonprofits impacted by this public health crisis. Today, I requested a statewide Economic Injury Disaster Loan declaration from the U.S. Small Business Administration to help get access to low-interest federal loans. Read my letter here."

Roanoke Small Business is monitoring the SBA disaster assistance program, the new Virus Relief Bill, and other recommendations for small businesses during these challenging times. Webinars, online information sessions, and other resources will be provided as we know more. The best way for business owners to contact us is email: hello@roanokesmallbusiness.org. They are standing by to assist as timely as we can.

Tuesday, March 17

Roanoke Valley Resource Authority

The hard-working men and women in the Salem Sanitation Department will continue to pick-up your garbage, as scheduled. However, effective March 23, residents will not be allowed to drop-off waste at either the Salem Transfer Station on Indiana Street or the Tinker Creek Transfer Station on Hollins Road in Roanoke. This policy will remain in effect until further notice.

May 5 Election - Vote Absentee

The Registrar's Office is encouraging all registered voters to request an absentee ballot to vote in the May 5 election by mail prior to April 28 before 5 pm. Apply online for a Virginia absentee ballot and select "My Disability or Illness" as the reason code on your application. To vote in person you must call our office first at 375-3034, Monday through Friday between 8 am to 5 pm and schedule the time you are coming to our office to vote.

Salem Civic Center Events

The Civic Center will keep its website up-to-date with the latest information about upcoming events at the Salem Civic Center as shows reschedule. If you have already purchased tickets to an event, they will transfer over to the new date. If the new date does not work for you, you will receive a refund at your point of purchase, either Ticketmaster.com or the Salem Civic Center Box Office, once the building reopens.

City Hall Limiting Access

Salem City Hall is now requiring all departmental business in the City be done by phone or email, unless absolutely necessary. Please refer to phone numbers on the top of each department webpage that is relevant for your concern. If you are not sure, call 375-3000. View a full list of phone numbers in the city (PDF).

If you would like to drop off a payment in person, please put all payments in the Collection box located next to City Hall. That includes, Utilities, Real Estate, Personal Property, Business License, Animal License, Parking Tickets, Fiduciary Taxes and Estimated Income Taxes. You can also pay via mail or online here. If you have any questions call 375-3024.

Salem Courthouse

All State courts are to remain open, but will reduce operations and restrict access to courthouses, pending further order. The courts have suspended many in-court proceedings. These restrictions will remain in place through at least April 10. For the duration, all courts will have a liberal continuance policy for any cases otherwise scheduled for trial.

Monday, March 16

Local Governments Declare Emergencies

Salem, along with Botetourt, Roanoke Co., Roanoke City and Vinton, has taken the precautionary measure of declaring an emergency. The action enables the local governments to request state and federal resources should they become needed. The purpose of this emergency declaration is to give the local governments legal authority and flexibility to mobilize resources in response to this unprecedented public health threat for the protection of the communities. .

Bus Routes for School Meal Deliveries by School Zone

Schools will begin delivering free meals (Breakfast and Lunch) to anyone aged 18 years old or younger starting Tuesday March 17, 2020. The meals will be delivered using special bus routes by "School Zone".

Comcast Offers Free Internet for 60 days and Free HotSpots

For a map of Xfinity Wi-Fi hotspots, visit www.xfinity.com/Wi-Fi. Once at an XFinity hotspot, consumers should select the "xfinityWi-Fi" network name in the list of available hotspots, and then launch a browser. Comcast Internet Essentials is $9.95/Month after the 60 day free period. The family can terminate the service at any time. See Comcast Internet Access Brochure for qualifications.

Salem Parks and Rec Athletic Events

All organized athletic events scheduled at Parks and Recreation facilities are cancelled through at least Sunday, March 29. Please note this cancellation includes all recreation, travel, school games, practices, tournaments, races, evaluations, clinics and related events scheduled to be held in the facilities. Additionally, "field use" applications will not be processed during this time for any future events.

Friday, March 13

Salem Parks and Rec Youth Sports

All youth and travel team practices/games have been cancelled through March 27. All City of Salem athletic facilities will be closed through at least March 30.

Salem Museum Closed

All events through the end of March are postponed until further notice.

Rotary Club Meetings Cancelled

The remaining March meetings have been cancelled. April meetings will be evaluated at the end of the month.

Kiwanis Meetings Cancelled

The next two Kiwanis meetings (March 17 and 24) have been cancelled. The March 31 meeting will be evaluated in coming weeks.

Salem City Schools Closed

Gov. Northam has closed all schools in the Commonwealth from March 16 through at least March 27. For more information, follow the school's website.

Shrine Circus at Salem Civic Center has been Postponed

Event has been moved to October 30 - November 1. Tickets will be honored for that event. For any questions, call the box office at 540-375-3004.

Salem Public Library Closed March 15 through March 31

City and library administration will re-evaluate and we will resume normal operations when deemed safe to do so.

Salem Parks and Recreation has Closed the Senior Center starting today through March 27

During this time, all community activities affiliated with the Salem Senior Center are cancelled. This includes activities that are held at other venues in the city, including Salem School locations. All Senior and community trips also are cancelled during this two week period. At the end of March, we will continue to evaluate whether to extend the closure and suspension of programs.

Tonight's St. Patrick's Day festivities in Downtown Salem have been Cancelled

There are no plans to reschedule this event.

Shamrock Volleyball event at the Salem Civic Center has been Cancelled

There are no plans to reschedule this event.