News Release

Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers NM Modifying Operations to Implement Latest Health Guidance

Date: March 18, 2020
Contact: Robert Stewart, 937-352-6757

Due to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and in response to guidance from local, state, and national public health officials, Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument has temporarily ceased operations, effective Thursday, March 19^th, 2020.

“We value the safety of our visitors and employees and believe this action to be in the best interest of public health and safety. The parking area and grounds remain open and accessible to the public during daylight hours, however the Colonel Young home is temporarily closed until the public health situation improves,” Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument Acting Superintendent Robert Stewart said.

Throughout the country, the National Park Service (NPS) is taking extraordinary steps to implement the latest guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), and local and state authorities. The NPS is modifying operations, until further notice, for facilities and programs that cannot adhere to this guidance. Where it is possible to adhere to this guidance, outdoor spaces will remain open to the public.

“Park superintendents are empowered to modify their operations, including closing facilities and cancelling programs, to address the spread of the coronavirus,” Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt said.

“The NPS is working with federal, state, and local authorities, while we as a nation respond to this public health challenge,” NPS Deputy Director David Vela said.

The NPS urges visitors to do their part when visiting a park and to follow CDC guidance to prevent the spread of infectious diseases by maintaining appropriate social distancing; washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; and most importantly, staying home if you feel sick. For high-risk populations, such as the elderly and people with underlying conditions, we ask that they take extra caution and follow CDC guidance for those at higher risk of serious illness.

Updates about the NPS response to the coronavirus will be posted on NPS Coronavirus page. For status updates on Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument, please visit the park's website and monitor the park’s social media feeds.