Trick-or-treaters will have the run of West Main Street on Halloween again this year, with the city reminding candy-seekers to make social distancing part of the celebration.
The Crawfordsville Board of Public Works and Safety on Wednesday approved closing the street during official trick-or-treating hours from
5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 31.
Residents of the neighborhood — who have seen around 2,000 costumed children come to the door in busy years — are expecting higher numbers this year with families eager to get out of the house.
“If trick-or-treat is happening, people are going to show up regardless of whether or not the street’s blocked off. It’s just going to make it safer for the kids and allow for more social distancing [to close the street],” West Main resident Daniel Petrie told the board.
Member Susan Albrecht said she had “strong reservations about the idea of people descending upon Main Street” this year, but agreed closing the street is necessary for safety.
“If it’s going to happen, we want to make sure it’s safe,” Albrecht said. “My personal opinion is people should strongly consider staying in their own neighborhoods this year given the COVID situation, but no, I think it makes sense for the reasons you cited.”
Member Erin Corbin called on families to “remember what social distancing is.”
“So, you know, don’t congregate at someone’s door if there’s already a party of six kids standing there. Be patient,” Corbin said.
The city says parents and residents should make the decision whether or not to participate in trick-or-treating based on their own comfort levels. Officials recommend handing out individually wrapped treats rather than allowing children to reach into a common container.
Residents not accepting trick-or-treaters this year are being asked to keep their porch lights turned off.
