Chamber of Commerce urges visitors to postpone Orcas Island travel

— from Lance Evans, Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce —

The safety of our Orcas island community is our highest priority. In light of growing concerns about COVID-19, the Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce is encouraging visitors to postpone their travel plans to the island to limit the potential spread of the virus. Based on Washington State Governor Jay Inslee’s recommendations, and those of San Juan County officials, we are urging visitors and locals alike to practice social distancing and postpone non-essential travel.

Governor Inslee issued a temporary statewide order, effective through March 31 to shut down restaurants, bars, entertainment, and recreational facilities due to the coronavirus. Restaurants are allowed to operate only in take-out, grab and go, and delivery capacities. We regret the impact this will have on our local businesses and economy. The Chamber will create and update a listing of available food choices to take-out.

The Chamber will work to encourage support of the island’s small businesses when it is safe to do so once again. These, among other community mitigation efforts, are considered the quickest and most effective means of containing COVID-19 transmissions.

We urge all travelers and community members to take protective measures against COVID-19, including frequently washing your hands, avoiding touching your mouth, nose, and eyes, and avoiding close contact with those who are sick. Also, if ferry travel is necessary, please stay in your car during the passage. Please find additional guidelines and local information about COVID-19 on the San Juan County website, HERE.

We will continue to monitor the situation as we work together with state and county officials to protect the people and places we love. We wish everyone health and wellness.

If you have any questions about Orcas Island, please email our office with your questions. We will get past this. #OrcasStrong