NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) – The mayor of Nashville, Tennessee, said Sunday he has requested that bars close and restaurant capacity be limited in the country music capital to combat the spread of the new coronavirus.
Mayor John Cooper said in a news release that he has asked the Metro Nashville Board of Health to declare a public health emergency. The board was set to meet later Sunday.
Cooper said that his short-term request includes closing big tourism draws at the honkys tonks of Lower Broadway as well as bars throughout Davidson County. He also requested that restaurants limit their maximum seating to under 50 percent of capacity, capped at 100 individuals.
He also asked that restaurants space out their table seating but encouraged them to remain open.
“It is our responsibility to set an example in keeping our community safe,” he said.