Gov. Charlie Baker announced on Friday that Phase 3 of the reopening plan can begin on Monday, July 6th in the state of COVID-19. It doesn’t begin in the city of Boston until July 13th. So which businesses will open and what restrictions will be in place?
Here’s the breakdown:
Get Togethers/Gatherings
The current 10-person limit on any indoor or outdoor gathering is being loosened. The updated order states that indoor gatherings are limited to eight people per 1,000 square feet, but should not include more than 25 people within a single enclosed indoor space.
Outdoor gatherings in enclosed spaces are limited to 25 percent of a facility’s permitted occupancy with a maximum of 100 people in a single enclosed outdoor space – this includes community events, civic events, sporting events, concerts, conventions, and more.
Gyms
Gyms can reopen at 40% occupancy. Equipment must be sanitize between every use and workers and gym goers must wear a face coverings from both workers and customers. Occupancy can’t exceed eight people per 1,000 square feet — and that includes staff, visitors, and other workers.
All equipment, including weights, machines, treadmills, and bikes, must be spaced out at least 14 feet apart, or 6 feet apart if dividers are installed.
Movie Theaters
Movie theaters can reopen under the first step of Phase 3 — with limits of 40 percent of each individual theater.
Outdoor Performance Venues
Outdoor performance venues can open with occupancy restrictions of 25 percent of the venue’s maximum permitted occupancy. In no event may the venue host more than 100 people.
Museums, aquariums, historical sites, and guided tours
These can reopen but with 40% occupancy
Sporting Events
Sports can come back but with no fans.
Casinos
Casinos can reopen with restrictions and safety guidelines in place.
Gov. Baker also announced that Phase 4 will not happen until there is a vaccine for COVID-19.
Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.