Virginia Phase 2 Reopening Planned; Delay For NoVA, Richmond

Emily Leayman
·3 min read

VIRGINIA — Gov. Ralph Northam plans to move most of Virginia into phase two of easing coronavirus-related restrictions on Friday, June 5. Northern Virginia and Richmond are directed to remain in phase one, but Accomack County on the Eastern Shore will move to phase two.

State officials continue to look at the same health metrics for reopening decisions. According to the governor, Virginia’s hospital bed capacity remains stable, the percentages of positive tests and hospitalized COVID-19 patients are trending downward, hospitals aren't reporting personal protective equipment shortages, and testing is increasing.

"Because of our collective efforts, Virginia has made tremendous progress in fighting this virus and saved lives," said Northam in a statement. "Please continue to wear a face covering, maintain physical distance, and stay home if you are high-risk or experience COVID-19 symptoms. Virginians have all sacrificed to help contain the spread of this disease, and we must remain vigilant as we take steps to slowly lift restrictions in our Commonwealth."

Under phase two, the maximum number for gatherings will increase from 10 to 50 people. The gathering limit does not apply to employment duties. The requirement for wearing face masks at indoor public places will continue, as well as recommendations for social distancing and teleworking. Businesses are asked to continue physical distancing and workplace safety measures. Phase one of reopening changed the stay-at-home guidance to "safer at home" guidance.

While outdoor dining is allowed at 50 percent capacity in phase one, indoor dining at 50 percent occupancy is allowed under phase two at restaurants. Fitness centers can open indoor areas at 30 percent capacity, and pools indoors and outdoors can open to exercise, diving and swim instruction. Indoor and outdoor recreational sports are permitted with restrictions such as no shared equipment. Certain recreation and entertainment venues without shared equipment — including museums, zoos, aquariums, botanical gardens, and outdoor concert, sporting, and performing arts venues — may open with restrictions.

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Non-essential brick-and-mortar retail remains limited to 50 percent capacity. Personal care and grooming businesses must be limited to 50 percent capacity with no more than two appointments per service provider at a time and six feet of space between work stations.

Beaches may be open for recreation provided that households stay six feet from others and gatherings be limited to 50 people. Sports, alcohol, tents, groupings of umbrellas, and other activities and other activities that encourage gatherings are not allowed.

Higher education institutions can offer in-person classes, labs and practical training provided they follow state guidelines. However, remote learning continues to be encouraged. A decision for K-12 schools for the next school year has not been announced.

Facilities remaining closed in phase two are: indoor theaters, indoor performing arts centers, indoor concert venues, and indoor entertainment centers, historic horse racing facilities, bowling alleys, skating rinks, arcades, amusement parks, trampoline parks, fairs, carnivals, arts and craft facilities, escape rooms, and other indoor public amusement facilities. Race tracks have opened, but spectators or members of the public are not allowed during phase two.

Most of Virginia moved into phase one on May 15, while Northern Virginia, Accomack County and Richmond were delayed until May 29. Northam says the phase two delay for Northern Virginia and Richmond will allow for additional monitoring of health data. Phase one had been delayed in Accomack County due to outbreaks in poultry plants, but state officials say testing efforts have helped control the outbreaks.

In light of protests after the death of George Floyd in police custody, Northam reminded protesters to wear face masks and practice social distancing.

"This is not only for your protection but for others as well," said Northam.

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This article originally appeared on the Kingstowne-Rose Hill Patch