Richmond, Va. (Newsradiowrva.com) - Fewer than 10 hours before Richmond business and restaurants were scheduled tobe able to partially reopen as part of Phase 1, Governor Ralph Northam granted the city at least a two week delay. The delay comes at the request of Mayor Levar Stoney, who said the city's health metrics didn't justify it.
Northam had said closures would be done on a regional basis to avoid different rules in the same area. However, both Richmond and Accomack County, which also received a delay, will be islands surrounded by more open localities.
“As I have said previously, Virginia’s Phase One guidelines represent a floor, not a ceiling,” said Governor Northam. “I have encouraged local leaders to request exemptions when appropriate, and I am pleased to grant the delays for both Accomack County and the City of Richmond.”
Chesterfield, Henrico, and Hanover counties all requested to move into phase 1.