COVID-19 Cases and Behavior Risks

Health officials are reminding the community to use good judgement and evaluate the risk levels of activities as COVID-19 cases surge and community spread is increasing.

Wellesley COVID-19 Cases Keep Climbing

As COVID-19 cases in Wellesley and the Commonwealth continue to rise, Health officials are urging residents to be aware of all updated travel restrictions.

Updated Quarantine Guidance for Close Contacts

Updated quarantine guidance from the State gives COVID-19 "close contacts" the option to quarantine for 14 days, or for 10 days if specific criteria are met.

Maine and NH Now High Risk for Travel

Maine and New Hampshire will move to high risk for travel beginning November 21. Due to the continued rise in COVID-19 cases in our community, Wellesley is now at yellow risk levels.

COVID-19 Case Update from Wellesley Schools and Health Department

Wellesley Public Schools and the Wellesley Health Department issued this joint statement about new COVID-19 cases in our community.

Second Surge in COVID-19 Cases

Massachusetts is experiencing a second surge in COVID-19 cases. Wellesley High School has moved to a full remote model for two weeks; all interstate hockey is cancelled.

New COVID-19 Relief Fund Grants Help Mask Up Wellesley and More

Recent grants from the Wellesley COVID-19 Relief Fund are supporting a new Mask Up Wellesley campaign, safe afterschool activities for teens, and a surprise holiday mobile movie night.

Revised COVID-19 Community Risk Map

Read the revised community-level COVID-19 risk data from State health officials.

New Orders Now in Effect

New orders to stop the spread of COVID-19 are now in effect. These include a mask mandate, overnight Stay at Home advisory, reduced gatherings limits, and more.

WPS COVID-19 Case Tracking, Safe Halloween and Thanksgiving Tips

Wellesley Public Schools is providing COVID-19 case tracking by school, and Health officials offer tips for a safe Halloween and Thanksgiving during the pandemic.

Boston Marathon Postponed Until Fall 2021

The Boston Athletic Association has announced that the 125th Boston Marathon, usually held in April, will be postponed until at least the fall of 2021. This decision will help keep runners and supporters safe during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Wellesley Remains Green, Hockey and Skating Suspended

Wellesley remains in the COVID-19 low-risk category; State suspends ice hockey and skating for two weeks.

Students Mask Up with Child-Sized PPE

Wellesley Public Schools is receiving 2,500 homemade children's masks sewn by local residents. Supplies were purchased with a recent Wellesley COVID-19 Relief Fund grant to the Fire Department.

COVID-19 Testing at CVS, Election 2020 Voter Information

Read Wellesley's weekly Coronavirus briefing with information on a new COVID-19 testing location on Route 9, voter information for the November 3, 2020 election, and more.

New COVID-19 School Metrics, Election Resources

Read the COVID-19 briefing for this week with new Wellesley Public Schools metrics, and information on voter protection resources.

Guidelines for Phase Three, Step 2 in Effect

Communities at low risk for Coronavirus, including Wellesley, may move to the next step in Phase 3 of Reopening Massachusetts. 

New guidelines in effect on Monday, October 5 permit higher occupancy for businesses, restaurants, recreation venues, g...

Do Your Part for a Safe School Start!

Wellesley School and Town officials are asking all residents to be COVID smart and follow restrictions to help our schools start and stay in-person. The Do Your Part campaign includes critical information and key reminders for everyone in our community.

New Reopening Information, Halloween Guidelines

COVID-19 updates this week include information on the next step in reopening, in-person learning for Wellesley Public Schools, and Halloween guidelines from State health officials.

COVID-19 Case Information, Community Impact Survey

Read the weekly COVID-19 case information, and complete the Massachusetts community impact survey to give input on additional resources needed to support residents during the ongoing pandemic.

Weekly COVID-19 Case Update, WPS Goes Back to School

Wellesley COVID-19 case counts remain at green (low-risk) levels, and Wellesley Public Schools begin remote learning. Officials are asking the entire Town to do their part to safely return to in-person hybrid learning on Oct. 1.

Weekly Case Data, Special Town Meetings on Oct. 26

Weekly COVID-19 case updates for Massachusetts and Wellesley, and information on two remote Special Town Meetings beginning on October 26.

New Coronavirus Hub Dashboard, Labor Day Safety

The Wellesley Coronavirus Information Hub now features enhanced data on Wellesley-specific cases. And Health officials are reminding residents to celebrate safely on Labor Day.

Case Update, Drop Off 2020 Election Ballots

Wellesley COVID-19 cases remain in the low risk category, and voters are encouraged to drop off 2020 Election ballots.

Flu Vaccine Required for Students, College Return to Campus Plans

All students in the Commonwealth, ages 6 months to 30 years, must get a flu shot this year. Wellesley and Babson Colleges have developed return to campus plans.

Wellesley Case Update, 2020 Election Ballots

Information from the Wellesley Health Department on positive and probable COVID-19 case numbers in the community, and an update on the 2020 Vote-by-Mail ballots.

Revised Gatherings Order in Effect on Aug. 11

Outdoor gatherings in Massachusetts are limited to 50 people beginning on Tuesday, August 11, 2020. 

Governor Baker announced the Revised Order Regulating Gatherings late last week.

To help residents adhere to these revised restrictions, the Board ...

Cases Rising, Update to Travel Order

The Commonwealth is seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases which may affect reopening plans, and Rhode Island is no longer low-risk for travelers.

REMINDER: New MA Travel Order in Effect

A new travel order for all visitors and returning residents to Massachusetts is now in effect.

These restrictions require that all visitors and any Massachusetts residents returning to the Commonwealth must: 

• Complete the Massachusetts Travel Form ...

New MA Traveler Order

A more restrictive traveler order for Massachusetts effective on August 1, and a reminder to wear your masks or face coverings.

Phase 3 Proceeding, Mask or Face Covering Reminder

Phase 3 of the Reopening Massachusetts plan is proceeding with gyms, health clubs, museums and other cultural facilities permitted to open. Health officials continue to urge residents to wear masks or face coverings to protect others and themselves.

Case Update, July 4 Safety

Active Coronavirus cases continue to decline, but the Health Department urges caution for July 4th weekend.

Initial Reopening Guidance for Schools Released

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has released initial guidance for reopening schools in the fall.

Phase 2, Step Two of Reopening Plan Starts June 22

Step Two of Phase 2 in the Commonwealth's reopening plan begins on Monday, June 22. Wellesley's remote 2020 Annual Town Meeting also starts on June 22.

Remote 2020 Annual Town Meeting, Staggered Playground Reopening

The Town will hold its first-ever remote Annual Town Meeting on June 22, and playgrounds will reopen on a staggered schedule to allow for safety inspections.

Outdoor Dining in Wellesley, 2-hour Meter Free Parking

As part of Phase 2 reopening, some Wellesley restaurants can temporarily expand outdoor dining, and free parking at 2-hour meters is extended until August.

Phase 2 Begins, Return Ballots

Massachusetts moves to Phase 2 of the reopening plan, and Town election ballots must be returned by June 13.

Phase 2 Announcement Expected, Morses Pond Summer Plan

The Governor will announce the start date of Phase 2, and the Recreation Department shares plans for reserved spaces, and an ungarded beach at Morses Pond this summer.

Case Counts, Graduation Parade

Read the COVID-19 briefing for June 4.

Restaurant Reopening Information, Return Local Election Ballots

As part of the Phase 2 reopening plans, Wellesley restaurants will temporarily be allowed to offer or expand outdoor dining by following specific guidelines, and 2020 local election ballots are due by June 13.

Voter Registration, WHS Graduation Parade

The last day to register to vote in Wellesley is June 3, and safely celebrate WHS graduates at a parade on June 6.

More Phase Two Previews, Vote Safe Campaign Update

The State released preview guidance for child care, summer camps, and youth sports programs in preparation for Phase Two of Reopening Massachusetts. And residents are urged to request mailed ballots for the Town Elections.

Phase Two Preview, Tax Payments Due on June 1

The State released previews of guidelines for restaurants and lodging operators as part of Phase Two of Reopening Massachusetts. And tax payments are due on Monday, June 1 by 5 PM.

Parks and Fields Reopen, 2020 Marathon is Cancelled

Wellesley parks and playing fields reopened for limited public use - restrictions are in place, and the 2020 Boston Marathon will be run virtually. The in-person running is cancelled due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Morses Pond Plans, Voter Safety

The Recreation Commission voted to have no lifeguards at Morses Pond this summer; other plans are still to come. The Vote Safe, Vote from Home campaign continues as residents are urged to request ballots by mail.

Town Meeting Now on June 22, Food Pantry's Summer Home

Wellesley's 2020 Annual Town Meeting has been postponed for the third time due to COVID-19; the new date is June 22. The Wellesley Food Pantry is temporarily moving for the summer.

Guidelines for May 25 Reopening, RMV Extensions

See the specific guidelines for businesses reopening on May 25, and the RMV extends dates for licenses, registration, and other services.

Library Reopening Plans, Modified Memorial Day Observances

The Wellesley Free Library book drop reopens on June 1, and Wellesley modifies Memorial Day observances this year.

CDC Report, Local Merchants Prep for Reopening

The CDC has released more guidance for reopening as Town officials continue to discuss plans for fields, sports courts and Morses Pond, and local merchants prepare for a safe reopening

More Reopening Information, Town Election Now on June 13

Town officials continue to review reopening information and provide guidance, and Wellesley's local election is now scheduled for June 13.

Reopening Plan Details, Love Notes

The Baker-Polio Administration share details and guidelines to start reopening Massachusetts, and local students send notes of love and thanks.

Reopening Information, COVID-19 Testing Map

The Governor will share details on reopening Massachusetts on May 18, and a new map lists all COVID-19 testing locations.

No CVS Testing in Wellesley, Follow Morses Pond Restrictions

The CVS on Linden Street will not be a COVID-19 testing site, and a reminder to follow restrictions at Morses Pond.

Antibody Testing, Advisory Committee Updates

The Health Department provides more information on antibody testing, and the Advisory Committee updates 2020 Annual Town Meeting news.

Close Contact Testing, Workplace Standards for Reopening

Testing for close contacts of COVID-19 cases is key to preventing a second outbreak, and the State provides workplace standards for reopening.

Four-Phase Approach to Reopen MA, Morses Pond Beach Stays Closed

State officials announce a four-phase approach to reopening the economy, and the Morses Pond gate will open but the beach will stay closed.

Masks at the RDF, Fields and Playgrounds Still Closed

Please remember to mask up when using the Recycling and Disposal Facility, and enjoy outdoor activities on trails and in conservation areas as fields and parks remain closed.

Golf Courses Reopen, Call in for Assistance

Gold courses can reopen with restrictions, and remember to call-in for COVID-19 help in Wellesley.

Face Covering Orders in Effect, Selectmen Hold Virtual Office Hours

State and Local face covering orders for all public spaces are now in effect. Protect yourself and others by covering your nose and mouth. And speak with a Selectman via Zoom during office hours on May 12.

Face Covering Orders Start May 6, COVID-19 Relief Fund Match Challenge

The statewide face covering order and supplemental Wellesley order start May 6, and the COVID-19 Relief Fund announces a two-week match challenge.

Supplemental Local Face Covering Order, Virtual Library Services

The Board of Selectmen and Board of Health sign a local order to expand on the Governor's Face Covering order, and the Library continues to offer many virtual services.

Governor Signs Face Covering Order, Remember Leash Law and Park Restrictions

Governor Baker signed an order requiring face coverings in all indoor and outrdoor public areas, and the Town is reminding residents of leash laws and park restrictions.

Mandatory Mask Order To Be Discussed, Help for Rec Department

The Board of Selectmen and the Board of Health will hold an emergency meeting to discuss a mandatory mask order, and the Recreation Department wants input on virtual programs.

Reopening Advisory Board, COVID-19 Fund Awards Grants, FMD Returns to Work

The Commonwealth has formed a Reopening Advisory Board, the Wellesley COVID-19 Relief Fund announces initial grants, and Facilites staff prepares to return to work in schools.

Non-Essential Services Closed Until May 18, Contact Tracing Continues

The Executive Order prohibiting non-essential services has been extended until May 18, and the Health Department and the Commonwealth are conducting extensive COVID-19 community tracing.

RDF Employee Recovering from COVID-19, Social Worker Call-in Hours

An RDF employee is recovering from COVID-19, and the Health Department offers call-in hours for residents to speak with a social worker.

State Cases Climb, Remember RDF Restrictions

The State reports a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases, and remember RDF restrictions to stay safe.

Wellesley COVID-19 Relief Fund

The Community Fund for Wellesley and the Board of Selectmen have created the Wellesley COVID-19 Relief Fund to support critical unmet needs in our commmunity.

Elizabeth Seton News, Domestic Violence Help, Landscaping Guidelines

The Elizabeth Seton Residence shares news about COVID-19, WPD reminds residents of domestic violence resources, and guidelines for landscapers.

Buoy Health Telemedicine, Seasonal COVID-19 Safety

A reminder that Buoy Health is offering online COVID-19 symptom checks, and seasonal safety tips for residents staying home during the Coronavirus crisis.

Schools Closed for Rest of School Year, Hydrant Flushing Postponed

The Governor has ordered all schools to stay closed for the rest of the school year, and all non-emergency child care centers closed until June 29. Spring hydrant flushing is postponed in order to prevent water use disruption in homes.

Wellesley's Wonderful Weekend Postponed, COVID-19 Relief Fund

Happy Patriot's Day and thank you to all runners who stayed home. Wellesley's Wonderful Weekend is postponed, and the COVID-19 Relief Fund provides support for residents.

Wellesley COVID-19 Relief Fund, No Marathon on Monday

A new relief fund for Wellesley supports urgent and evolving needs in our community resulting from COVID-19. And a reminder that the Boston Marathon is postponed - runners should stay home on Monday.

Support for Long-term Care Facilities, Town Meeting Postponed Again, Mask Up

Support long-term care facilities during COVID-19. Annual Town Meeting is postponed for a second time, and Wellesley masks up to flatten the curve.

Case Count Updates, Essential Services FAQs, Mailed Ballot Typo

There are new updates to local COVID-19 case count reporting. The State gives more clarification for essential services questions, and some mailed ballots have an incorrect local election date.

No April Break for WPS, Share Your Good News

The School Committee has cancelled April vacation to help maintain the momentum of remote learning, and share your good news and good works during the Coronavirus pandemic.

COVID-19 Cases Spike, Essential Construction Defined, Tax Payment Dates Extended

COVID-19 cases in Wellesley spike over the weekend. The Town announces specific criteria for essential construction projects, and the due date for real estate and property tax payments is extended.

COVID-19 Assistance Phone Numbers, New Library Resources

Public health officials expect the critical COVID-19 surge to occur between April 10-20; please stay home as much as possible. Resources are available by phone, and the library has new activity offerings.

Supporting Wellesley Call Center, SafeLink for Abuse Survivors, COVID-19 Care Jobs

Call the Supporting Wellesley call center for non-emergency help. The Commonwealth expands help for abuse survivors, and the COVID-19 team is recruiting people for paid jobs in temporary healthcare centers.

Grocery Stores Limit Occupancy, Nursing Home Call-In Line

A new State order limits the number of shoppers and employees in grocery stores, and a call-in line offers resources for families of nursing home residents.

Restriction Reminders, Vote Safe

With peak COVID-19 infections expected between April 10-22, the Health Dept. is reminding residents to follow all current restrictions. Grocery stores may limit customer capacity even more, and request your mail-in Town election ballot.

A Message About COVID-19 from Fire Chief Rick DeLorie

Read this message to the community about COVID-19 from Wellesley Fire Chief Rick DeLorie.

Mask Recommendations, Remote Learning 2.0, Supporting Wellesley Call Center

Residents are urged to follow the CDC cloth face mask recommendation, WPS launches remote learning 2.0, and the Supporting Wellesley call center is here to help residents.

COVID-19 Hub, Alcohol with Food Take-out, Celebration Clap on Saturday

The Town launches a COVID-19 Info Hub, restaurants can sell alcohol with food take-out, and join a Town-wide celebration clap on Saturday, April 4.

Wellesley Launches New Coronavirus Information Hub

The Town of Wellesley has launched a new site for all Coronavirus briefings, data and resources. Visit the Coronavirus Information Hub for the most current, accurate information for the Wellesley community.

Beaches Closed, Shop Solo at Roche Bros, Social Distancing Explained

The Governor closes State beaches, Roche Bros. asks customers to shop solo, and see specific examples of social distancing.

RDF Message, Cybersecurity Warning, Support Services

The RDF is reminding residents to visit at non-peak times. The FBI issues cybersecurity warnings for remote meetings, and the Wellesley Will Be Well initiative provides support services for all.

Non-Essential Businesses Closed Until May 4, Entire Wellesley College Campus Closed

The Governor extended the non-essential business closure until May 4. The entire Wellesley College campus is now closed to the public.

Take-Out Safety Tips, New Remote Building Inspection Protocols

The Health Department is providing take-out safety tips, and effective immediately the Building Department will begin conducting all inspections remotely.

Control Pets, Protect Our First Responders

Town officials are reminding residents to control pets to maintain social distancing, and support first responders while keeping them and others healthy.

Use Official Trusted Sources

Residents are reminded that Town briefings are Wellesley's official, trusted source for Coronavirus information.

Coronavirus Community Spread, WPS More Robust Remote Learning

The Health Dept. is reporting more community spread of COVID-19 in Wellesley, and Wellesley Public Schools will announce robust plans for remote learning to support students through May 4.

Disaster Request for MA, Landscaping Clarification

The U.S. has the world's most reported number of COVID-19 cases at 81,321. The Governor has submitted a disaster request for Massachusetts, and the Town has received clarification on landscaping services.

New RDF Rules, Effective Immediately

The Recycling and Disposal Facility (RDF) has implemented new restrictions due to COVID-19. These rules are effective immediately and remain in place until futher notice.

Schools Closed Until May 4, New RDF Rules, Plastic Bag Ban Temporarily Lifted

The Governor orders schools to stay closed until May 4. New RDF rules are in effect to prevent recycling congestion, and Wellesley's plastic bag ban is temporarily lifted.

Emergency Orders in Effect, RDF Recycling Changes

All non-essential COVID-19 businesses and services are now closed until April 7. New RDF recycling procedures will protect users and staff.

Emergency Orders, Protect Our First Responders

All State and Town emergency orders remain in effect as the Coronavirus pandemic is now widespread throughout Massachusetts.

Cases in Wellesley Remain at Eight

The number of COVID-19 cases in Wellesley remains at eight. Community efforts continue to ensure that Wellesley Will Be Well.

Emergency Childcare, Wellesley College Closed to Public

Early childhood education centers are closed effective March 23, except for emergency childcare programs. All Wellesley College buildings, facilities and parking lots are closed to the public.

A Message from the RDF About Coronavirus Precautions

In anticipation of the weekend, the Recycling and Disposal Facility (RDF) is asking residents to read, and heed, this important message about Coronavirus precautions.

Medical Reserve Corps, Fire Inspection Changes, RDF Precautions

Do your part to make sure Wellesley Will Be Well. Volunteer for the Medical Reserve Corps, know the new fire inspection changes, and follow RDF precautions.

Wellesley Will Be Well Campaign

As the Coronavirus continues to spread, Town officials urge cooperation, halt building inspections and ask residents to join together in the Wellesley Will Be Well campaign.

WPD Notice for Public Land

The Wellesley Police Dept. asks the public to be responsible and stay away from closed areas in Town during the Coronavirus crisis.

New Restrictions, Take-Out Challenge, Volunteers Needed

Coronavirus concerns are becoming increasingly serious; the community needs to provide a serious response. See new restrictions, take the take-out challenge and volunteer.

Town Meeting Postponed, Local Business Support Resources

Coronavirus concerns postpone Town Meeting; Town Hall is closed to the public and other restrictions are fully in place; and officials are developing local business resources.

Elections Postponed, Town Buildings Closed, Operations Move Online

According to State orders, Wellesley town elections are postponed, all public buildings, parks, playgrounds, and fields are closed. Online operations are encouraged.

New State Orders Restrict Interactions, Protect High Risk Groups

State officials issue orders to restrict interactions to slow the spread of Coronavirus. Wellesley provides more information on how to help everyone in the community stay safe and healthy.

Municipal Buildings Operating with Limited Public Access

The Town of Wellesley will be limiting public access to municipal buildings and suspending additional programming to slow the spread Coronavirus and help keep residents and employees healthy and safe.

Wellesley Public Schools, Tolles Parsons Center Closed for Two Weeks

Wellesley Public Schools and the Tolles Parsons Center will be closed for two weeks beginning on March 13. Council on Aging programs and Wellesley Free Libraries programs suspended.

Wellesley Modifies COA, Library & Rec Programs, WPS Cancels Events, Trips, Activities

Wellesley is moving forward with strict precautionary measures to help slow the spread of COVID-19.

Partners HealthCare Offers Coronavirus Hotline

Partners HealthCare in Massachusetts is offering a Coronavirus hotline for physicians, patients and members of the public.

This centralized call line will serve as as resource for physicians, patients, and members of the public who may have questions about...

Town and School Events to Go On As Scheduled

The Health Dept. has issued an updated Coronavirus briefing to the community. Town and School events currently may take place as scheduled.

Wellesley Park 40R District

A proposed redevelopment and rezoning of Wellesley Office Park on William Street, the project would replace much of the existing office uses with a variety of uses, likely to include housing, retail, and other amenities.

40B Development Projects

M.G.L. c.40B authorizes the Zoning Board of Appeals to issue a comprehensive permit to facilitate construction of low- and moderate-income housing.

Hardy, Hunnewell, Upham Facilities Project

Two new elementary schools will serve more than 700 K-5 students in Hardy, Hunnewell, and Upham schools. A new Hunnewell School is in design development; a feasibility study is under way for a school at either Hardy or Upham in partnership with the MSBA.

Tailby and Railroad Commuter Lots Development Project

The Board of Selectmen issued a Request for Proposals (“RFP”) to invite proposals from qualified developers to enter into one or more long-term leases to develop the Tailby (103 Linden Street) and Railroad (7 Grove Street)  Commuter Parking Lots ...

Run for Public Office

Interested in running for public office in Wellesley in 2021?

The Town of Wellesley depends on community volunteers who hold elected offices in municipal government, lead boards and committees, and serve as Town Meeting members.

The nomination period for al...

December 1, 2020 WMS Debt Exclusion Results

The Unofficial Results for the December 1, 2020 WMS Debt Exclusion have been posted to the website here.  The results include all ballots the have been processed by the voting machines at the polls.  All hand-counted ballots will be adde...

Free 2-hour Parking Until Jan. 1

Free parking at all bagged 2-hour meters in Wellesley continues until January 1, 2021. 

Shoppers are encouraged to visit Wellesley's retail and restaurant areas during the holiday season. The 2-hour meters are primarily located in the Wel...

Recycled Newspaper and Cardboard Needed at RDF

Recycle your newspaper and cardboard at the RDF and make money for the Town. Buyers are paying top dollars for these clean paper recyclables which are in high demand, in part due to changes in buying habits caused by COVID-19.

Run for Public Office

Interested in running for public office in Wellesley? Read information about the nomination process and deadlines for Town-wide office and and Town Meeting member candidates.

2021 Annual Town Meeting Warrant Now Open

The Wellesley Select Board will convene the 2021 Annual Town Meeting on Monday, April 26, 2021. 

Due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, the 2021 Annual Town Meeting will take place via the Zoom digital platform beginning at 7:00 p.m. 

Th...

Free 2-hour Parking Extended Until Jan. 1

Free parking at all 2-hour bagged meters in Wellesley has been extended until January 1, 2021. The benefit will help boost the business economy and bring more customers to retail and restaurant areas.

Looking for a Good Spaghetti Sauce Recipe? We've Got One!

The Wellesley Police Department recently learned that Chief Pilecki’s world famous spaghetti sauce recipe has been revealed and published in the newly released “Wellesley At Home Cookbook” by the Wellesley Hills Junior Women&...

WPD Promotes Will Griffin to Sergeant, Welcomes 2 New Officers

Wellesley Police Chief Jack Pilecki is proud to announce the promotion of William Griffin from police officer to the rank of sergeant.   The Wellesley Select Board made the promotion earlier this month.   Two new officers also have joine...

WPD Investigates Attempted Home Break In on Pine Plain Road

The Wellesley Police Department is investigating an attempted house break on Pine Plain Road around 8PM on Friday, November 13.  

The front door to a home was kicked in while the occupants were home.  The suspect (s) is/are believed to ha...