The public’s access to the Omaha Douglas Civic Center and Douglas County Courthouse will be restricted through at least the end of the year as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Paul Cohen, administrator of the Omaha Douglas Public Building Commission, said in a news release that the same controls  and policies in place in March will be reinstated.

“As was the case, individuals needing access to courts in the Civic Center and Hall of Justice will be allowed entrance,” he said. “Only the person or persons scheduled to be at a hearing or court proceeding should be in attendance. Security officers will direct them to and from the proper location.”

Public meetings will still be held in the Civic Center, and attendees will be directed by security officers to the location of those meetings. Distancing and density guidelines will be maintained, and masks are requested.

Most county departments are operating but generally closed to walk-in customers. Visitors should call ahead or consult the department’s website before coming to the Civic Center.

City departments will only be conducting in-person business with prior approval. Contractors should drop off parcels with security officers at the Farnam Street entrance and should contact the department in advance.

Mayor Jean Stothert’s office still will be open and staffed.