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“Don’t be here”: Signs on Atlanta Beltline echo CEO’s message to stay home

ATLANTA — The weather is beautiful, and it’s tempting to get on the Atlanta Beltline, but officials are warning against that.

Laser counters on the trail have recorded a slight drop in usage, but not enough for coronavirus concerns.

[RELATED: North Georgia Officials: Visitors are not welcome in the mountains this weekend]

On Friday, they put up signs saying, “go home”, “this is serious” and "don’t be here.”

The CEO, Clyde Higgs, says it should only be used for essential trips, work, medical facility or the grocery store.

“That’s where that Atlanta spirit is going to have to take hold. We’re all going to have to take some personal responsibility and shelter in place,” Higgs said.

Higgs says they are watching the coronavirus stats closely, but for now, only essential travel is allowed on the Beltline.

With a beautiful weekend ahead, people could be tempted to get outside or meet with friends.

Channel 2’s Mike Petchenik spoke to a medical expert who said that could set us back weeks.