Masks Again Required In Tempe City Buildings

TEMPE, AZ — The city of Tempe is again requiring employees and visitors to wear a face mask inside city-run facilities, following new guidance from the CDC.

People are required to wear face masks in city buildings whether or not they are fully vaccinated, according to a press release. Children under 6 are not required to wear masks.

The requirement started Friday, July 30.

The mask mandate does not apply on city parks, playgrounds, or other outdoor facilities. It also does not apply to restaurants and businesses, unless the individual owners decide to mandate mask-wearing.

The CDC has issued new guidance last Tuesday, recommending everyone wear a face mask regardless of vaccination status.

"Arizona and the City of Tempe, among other local communities, meet the threshold for substantial community spread," a press release from the city states. "Maricopa County case count data and wastewater testing data for Tempe show a more elevated level of community virus spread.

"Vaccination rates among eligible populations also are lower than is desired, which is contributing to higher case counts regionally."

City Council meetings will continue virtually.

To read more, visit the City of Tempe's website.