RICHMOND, Va. — Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam says he plans to further relax restrictions on businesses and public gatherings next week, saying trends related to cases of COVID-19, hospitalizations and other health metrics were moving in the right direction.
Northam said at a news conference Tuesday that he's planning for the state to enter Phase 3 of reopening July 1.
Under Phase 3, restaurants and nonessential retail stores would no longer have to limit indoor capacity to 50% of what their space can hold. Social gatherings of up to 250 people would be allowed.
Recreation and entertainment venues may operate at 50% occupancy, or a maximum of 1,000 people.
The announcement is music to the ears of Quirks restaurant manager Alyxander Zapolski. She’s eager to accommodate more guests.
The restaurant did have to close for 30 days at the start of the pandemic
“Even at 50 percent, we are still really busy,” Zapolski said. “We are still doing everything we can for everyone.”
This new phase doesn’t halt physical distancing or safety measures
“We are practicing the same sanitation techniques and everything we have been doing since we reopened for business,” Zapolski said.
While capacities will lift, there will still be six feet between tables for the safety of customers.
Phase 3 also takes gatherings from just 50 people to 250.
“We are excited to get back in there and have the weddings that our brides have dreamed of the whole time, without many sacrifices,” said Amberly Ferguson.
Ferguson helps plan weddings at her Virginia Beach venue, Gala 417. She said pandemic restrictions forced most of her brides and grooms to reschedule.
“99 percent of them have postponed and most starting from August forward are going to continue as planned,” Ferguson said.
She’s excited to bring celebrations back, with proper guidelines in place.
“Just getting to be surrounded by your family and friends when we celebrate that day, and how much we are not going to take that for granted anymore,” Ferguson said.
Governor Northam did stress frequent handwashing and masks still must be worn inside.
“The masks are so irritating, we can’t stand them,” Zapolski said. “But we do it so we can keep everyone safe.”
