The coronavirus continues to affect aspects of life in Tampa Bay. The latest revelation is that Cross-Bay Ferry service has been suspended until further notice. This decision was made in the hopes of mitigating the spread of the virus through Tampa and St. Petersburg.

Full statement:

Due to the impact of COVID-19 and the latest public health orders issued the Cross Bay Ferry will be suspending service until further notice. We plan to restore ferry operations once health concerns pass and local health orders are lifted. We appreciate your understanding.

Yesterday, Mayor Kriseman called on the state to issue some form of a safer at home order, and said if an order was not made cities in the Sunshine State would be forced to act on their own. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor could enact a safe at home order effective midnight on Thursday, March 26.

Officials are urging residents of all ages to practice social distancing, and to be respectful of CDC guidelines. This doesn’t mean never leaving your home, but rather keeping a minimum of 6 feet of space between you and other individuals, not congregating in large groups, washing your hands, disinfecting personal belongings, and not traveling for non-essential purposes.