Many businesses can resume operations today at 25 percent capacity as the state enters Phase One.
Fire Marshal Butch Browning says churches can resume indoor services, but worshipers will be spaced out six feet in every direction between your family and fellow attendees.
“Some are going to have more services, some are going to take reservations for services so that they can be ready for the family to come, but fundamentally it is 25 percent use of the area,” says Browning.
Most dining rooms will be allowed to open as well, and Browning says he’s talked to restaurant owners and they sound committed to ensuring rooms aren’t packed with over-eager crowds.
“They are not going to be afraid to say hey, look we are at 25 percent capacity can you sit in your car for 20 minutes and wait for a seat, or can we text you when we are ready and you can come?” says Browning.
Self-service and buffets will not be allowed under Phase One.
Movie theaters, hair salons, gyms, and many nonessential businesses also open today. Browning says following social distancing guidelines will be key to determining whether we can expand that list in the future.
“We have got to baby step into getting businesses open as not to violate the great work that has been done so far,” says Browning.