NORWALK, CT — The 24th Norwalk resident to die of complications from the new coronavirus (COVID-19) was reported on Thursday, and the number of confirmed cases of the virus reached 671, according to Mayor Harry Rilling.

Connecticut approached 10,000 COVID-19 cases on Thursday with 9,784, and the number of deaths statewide reached 380, according to Gov. Ned Lamont. "I am sorry to report that we've lost another resident to coronavirus," Rilling said in a statement, adding that there were 4,884 confirmed cases of the virus in Fairfield County. "I am sending my deepest condolences to their family and friends. I hope this is the last COVID-19 death in our community, but fear it is not."

Both Rilling and Lamont said that while cases and hospitalizations appear to be slowing ever so slightly in Connecticut, the apex of the virus is still a ways off. (Don't miss local and statewide news about coronavirus developments and precautions. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.) Earlier in the day, Lamont announced that schools and non-essential businesses, such as restaurants, will remain closed in the state until at least May 20.

"While the number of new positive cases reported to us has slowed the past few days, health experts warn that we are still weeks away from the peak," Rilling said. "We all need to keep practicing physical distancing. I know that can be challenging with the holidays here, but please, do not take to your cars for parking lot gatherings or to drive through neighborhoods. That is an unnecessary risk no one should take." This is part of Rilling's Thursday announcement:

The Norwalk Transfer station remains open as an essential City service, with limited hours and reduced staffing. To promote physical distancing, residents will notice every-other spot blocked off. City officials encourage members of the public who are able, to visit the transfer station during weekdays and not wait for the weekend. A rush of residents on Saturdays creates traffic problems and could pose potential health risks.

City Boards and Commissions will be using the Zoom platform for public meetings. This allows members of the public to share comments directly during a meeting. However, those who wish to simply watch a meeting can do so on the City of Norwalk YouTube channel. Please note there is roughly a 25 second delay from what is on Zoom and what is on YouTube.

City officials reminds residents that garbage and recycling collection services by the City of Norwalk will follow the regular collection schedule on the Good Friday Holiday, April 10. Collection services will remain on regular schedule during the current pandemic until further notice, but are subject to change. Norwalk City Hall will be closed entirely on April 10.

With the holidays here, many might be seeking creative ways to celebrate. City officials encourages everyone to stay home and use technology and phone calls to stay connected. Members of the public are encouraged to sign-up for the City's CodeRED Emergency Alert Notification System at norwalkct.org/codered.