As of July 2, Mountain View Cemetery remains closed to the general public, with certain exceptions for special holidays, such as Mothers’ Day and Fathers’ Day, to allow people to visit their loved ones. Before COVID-19 shuttered the gates to the general public on March 24, the Frederick Law Olmstead designed grounds were popular with locals who made use of the park-like setting for strolling, picnicking as well as paying respects to the dead.
Since the cemetery is considered an essential business, funeral services and burial services are still operational, but the number of people is restricted to between 10 and 20 attendees. People are still expected to maintain social distancing and wear appropriate face coverings.
However, the cemetery is not offering grounds assistance to any admittees, and restrooms are not available.
Sales and customer service manager Kristie Ly said that the cemetery has patrols monitoring the cemetery to ensure that people adhere to the current limitations and to prevent people from coming into the cemetery through non-official entrances.
“People are chomping at the bit to come in here and have a picnic,” Ly said.
Despite the public’s eagerness to return to the cemetery, Ly said that Mountain View Cemetery is still playing reopening by ear. When that time comes, they will be careful to adhere to all statewide and local regulations.
“What we’re doing right now works for us,” Ly said. “We’re still not open to the public until further notice.”