 Governor Northam has issued the rules for Phase One of reopening Virginia, which could begin at the end of next week, if current COVID-19 trends hold.
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Nonessential businesses, which were ordered closed by Northam at midnight March 24, would begin reopening Friday, May 14 under the state’s new “safer in place” messaging – with restrictions.
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Personal grooming retail – which includes salons, barber shops, spas, massage parlors, tanning salons, tattoo shop – can reopen in Phase One, but by appointment-only and at 50% capacity. Both the provider and the client must wear face coverings during service and any service that would require its removal–lip wax, facial, beard trimming–is prohibited. Waiting areas are also prohibited.
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Nonessential retail stores can open in Phase One at 50% capacity and with social distancing inside, plus employees wearing masks and increased sanitation.
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Recreation and entertainment venues – such as bowling alleys, theaters and music venues – stay closed.
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Gyms and fitness centers cannot open inside, but can host outdoor classes, with a limit of 10 or fewer people in the class and at least 10 feet between people.
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Restaurants and breweries cannot open their dining or tasting rooms, but they can use their patios at 50% capacity and with 6 feet between parties – provided the patio is at least 6 feet away from the sidewalk or any public area. Restaurant employees must wear masks and restaurants must use disposable menus.
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Churches can reopen at 50% capacity and with increased sanitation.
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Beaches will remain closed except for exercise or fishing; outdoor swimming pools may open, but for lap swimming-only with a limit of one person per lane.
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A 10-person limit on social gatherings – enforceable as misdemeanor – remains in place, as does the recommendation for wearing masks in public and telework for professional businesses.
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Northam said Friday that Phase One of the state’s reopening could last two weeks or longer. He says the restrictions are a “floor,”and that localities that want stricter regulations can reach out to the administration, which will have the final say.
