RICHMOND, Va. – We now know when Virginia will move into Phase Two of opening.
Gov. Ralph Northam announced that June 5 is when Phase Two will begin for many Virginians. Northern Virginia, Richmond will remain in Phase One. Accomack County will be able to move into Phase Two with the rest of Virginia.
The governor’s office released a 41-page document outlining Phase Two guidelines.
These are some of the changes we’ll see during Phase Two:
- Gatherings will be limited to 50 people, rather than 10
- Entertainment venues are able to open
- Restaurants can have indoor seating again, limited to 50% capacity
- Gyms and fitness centers can have indoor classes and workouts, limited to 30% capacity
- Certain recreation and entertainment venues without shared equipment may open with restrictions
- These venues include museums, zoos, aquariums, botanical gardens, and outdoor concert, sporting, and performing arts venues.
- Swimming pools may also expand operations to both indoor and outdoor exercise, diving, and swim instruction.
- Recreational sports can again happen, with physical distance requirements in place
Certain aspects of Phase One will continue in Phase Two:
- Face coverings will be required in indoor spaces
- Social distancing and telework will remain recommended practice
- Guidelines for religious services, non-essential retail, and personal grooming services will largely remain the same
The governor plans to talk more about what Phase Two on Thursday.