With COVID-19 numbers stable and Connecticut vaccinations eclipsing one million, restaurant owners around the state got the news they've been waiting for: they can open to full capacity, effective March 19.
Gov. Ned Lamont says the 11 p.m. curfew will stick for now, and diners will still have to observe social distancing, wear masks while not eating and observe other measures that have been deemed effective in slowing the virus.
The governor is also lifting capacity restrictions at offices, stores, gyms, museums libraries and houses of worship. Theaters will be able to open to 50% capacity.
Connecticut restaurants, gyms and more will open to full capacity as of March 19.Gov
In a statement, Connecticut Restaurant Association (CRA) Executive Director Scott Dolch thanks the governor, but takes issue with the continued curfew and eight-per-table limit:
"To be clear, there is still much work to be done before Connecticut and its restaurants are at full strength. Before the pandemic, restaurants accounted for more than 160,000 jobs in our state. To get back to that point, the state will need to fully lift the curfew, limits on table sizes and more. It can do it safely by maintaining social distancing and mask rules, along with other safety precautions. We look forward to working with our partners in government toward those goals in the weeks ahead."
When asked how many restaurants in Connecticut have closed over the last year, state officials referred us to the CRA. Dolch has estimated 800-900 restaurants have shut down over the last year, with many hoping to come back this spring.
Lamont says bars and nightclubs will remain closed "for a little while longer."
Bars will remain closed, and many COVID mitigation measures will remain in place, even after many facilities open to full capacity.Governor
