Hurricane Leslie has been downgraded to a tropical storm and is forecast to move further away from the Island.The storm is currently stationary and is forecast to be at its closest point to Bermuda at 4pm on Sunday when it will be 174 miles east of the Island.The forecast is for Leslie to grow in strength to be a Category 1 hurricane when she passes the Island and the Bermuda Weather Service is still issuing a tropical storm watch.This afternoon after a meeting of the Emergency Measures Organisation, National Security Minister Wayne Perinchief said: "It appears that Bermuda will be spared a direct impact from a hurricane as the forecast is for Leslie to pass by more than 150 miles to our east."However, I urge the public to remain cautious as there is the potential for the storm to re-intensify and change track and we could experience heavy rain and winds in shower bands."The public should also tune into updates from the Bermuda Weather Service and EMO that will be disseminated through local media and updated on our website at www.emobermuda.com.”* The Emergency shelter at Cedarbridge academy will now not open on Saturday, but remains in a state of readiness should it be required. A contact number for the shelter is 292 6339.* The Ministry of Education has advised that schools will open for Principals and teachers on Monday and students will return on Tuesday, September 11.* The Causeway will remain open unless sustained winds exceed 50 knots.* The re-opening of Government offices will be advised after the passage of the storm.* The Department of Airport Operations (DAO) will continue to closely assess the latest weather forecast information and will make a determination on closing the airport based on updates from the Bermuda Weather Service. Those scheduled to travel Saturday, Sunday or Monday, are urged to check with their respective airline.* Concerning public transportation, buses will continue to run on Saturday, September 8 unless sustained winds exceed 40 knots. The Sea Express Ferry Service will run to the end of the day on Friday, September 7 but all services will be suspended on Saturday, September 8 and Sunday, September 9.Yesterday Butterfield Bank announced in-branch banking and drive-through banking services will be suspended on Saturday.ATMs operated by the bank that are exposed to the elements will be shut down as well to prevent damage.Meanwhile, Belco has stepped up emergency repairs ahead of the storm that will affect some 333 Spokeswoman Susan McGrath-Smith said: “The work is being undertaken now, in advance of Hurricane Leslie, in the interest of public safety.“Temporary repairs were made to this equipment, and permanent repairs were scheduled for a later date. Bermuda Gas and Utility Company issued a reminder for customers to turn off the gas at their cylinders and tanks before the storm.General Manager Judith Uddin said: “Attention should also be paid to securing empty or light cylinders as they could become airborne during high winds.“Should Bermuda experience severe storm damage in the coming days, we would ask for the cooperation of the public to ensure that telephone calls to Bermuda Gas on 298-6114 are limited to genuine, emergency situations only.“This will help us to maintain the safety of all customers and staff,” explained Mrs Uddin.The last cruise ship berthed at Dockyard left yesterday at 6pm, as did the supply ship Bermuda Islander. A decision will be made today on a planned cruise ship call due on Sunday.Elsewhere, public restrooms maintained by the Corporation of St George will be shut from 4pm today until further notice.