Salt Lake City Airport in Utah is working with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to coordinate social distancing as returning missionaries move through the airport.
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall has issued guidelines for airport arrivals and pickups, following discussions with both the airport and the church.
Individuals picking up returning missionaries are asked to park on the second level of the short-term parking garage and remain in their vehicle. Missionaries will be directed by airport staff to the parking area for pickup. Only one vehicle is permitted to pick up a missionary, and airport security will be monitoring adherence to the guidelines.
“We know how important it is to reunite with a family member during this time, but we have to adhere to mass gathering standards, which are in place to protect us. Lives are on the line and every precaution must be taken to help stop the quick spread of this dangerous illness,” Mendenhall said.
“These guidelines are common-sense measures that reflect what we have previously directed families to do,” said Eric Hawkins, spokesman for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “It is imperative that missionaries and their families adhere to these guidelines for their own safety, the safety of their families, and the safety of the community.”