Effective today, March 18, the Spokane County Regional Health District says it will be limiting public access to the building due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

The main entrance will be locked, both sets of elevators will be closed to the public. Any allowed guests will require a staff escort. Clients only will be allowed to enter through the southwest entrance of the building, located at 1101 W. College.

The measure was among several steps tatken both in Spokane County and around the state as health officials and authorities continue to urge residents maintain safe distance to curb the virus’s spread.

Veterans moved to use electronic service options

The Spokane County Regional Veterans Services Office says it’s now providing online and phone communications options for veterans and their families for services and claims.

The office has suspended in-office appointments and classes. Case-by-case exceptions will be considered only for emergent situation.

“We’re deeply concerned for veterans and their loved ones in these uncertain times of COVID-19,” says Cathrene Nichols, administrator for Spokane County and Eastern Washington Regional Veterans Services, in a press release.

“Information is rapidly changing, and we, like everyone else, are working hard to keep up, remain transparent, and follow directives from our local, state and federal regulators,” she says.

L&I limiting regional office visits

The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries is accepting customers by appointment only between the hours of 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in L&I offices across the state.

Public doors will be locked as part of the temporary policy.

Customers are encouraged to use the option of doing business with L&I online or over the phone during business hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The L&I Office of Information and Assistance is 360.902.5800.

Spokane Parks & Rec closes downtown attractions

The City of Spokane Parks and Recreation department has closed all Riverfront attractions until March 31.

City golf courses are temporarily closed while staff establishes social distancing and sanitation measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and the Washington State Department of Health.

In other area coronavirus-related news ...

*WorkSource offices statewide have closed to the public. Customers can get help from staff online or by phone. More HERE

*Pullman Regional Hospital has limited visiting hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. More HERE

*The Washington State University Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art is temporarily closed to the public until the end of spring semester in May.