National Aquarium in Baltimore Inner Harbor closed by city health department for improper social distancing
The National Aquarium in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor was shuttered by the city health department Sunday for violating social distancing guidelines.
Baltimore City Health Department spokesman Adam Abadir said it was “temporarily” closed after a health inspection and after warnings were issued about overcrowding and lack of social distancing at several aquarium exhibits.
“No citations or fines are associated with the closure,” Abadir said. “Our teams are working with the National Aquarium’s leadership and are reviewing their COVID-19 reopening plans, to resolve these health and safety concerns as quickly as possible.”
The aquarium did not immediately respond to request for comment.
Baltimore City is currently capped at 25% capacity for retail, attractions and museums, which includes in the aquarium.
Although Abadir said there are no fines, the aquarium could have faced a fine up to $5,000 or one-year in jail, and potentially both for violating Gov. Larry Hogan’s executive order during a state of emergency.
