Today, Governor Charlie Baker revealed the plan to begin reopening Massachusetts. The plan’s “Phase 1” begins with opening places of worship, manufacturing and construction. Last week, we covered the four-phases of reopening, which include Start, Cautious, Vigilant, New Normal.
Governor Baker announced that each phase will last three weeks at the minimum. That said, phases can last longer depending on public health data. Here’s what to expect in Phase 1 of Massachusett’s reopening.
What’s New in Phase 1?
- There are two important dates to keep in mind: May 18 and 25.
- If you’re taking public transportation on the MBTA, you will be required to wear a face-covering
What Businesses Can Reopen in Phase 1 on May 18?
- Places of worship with guidelines and outdoor services are encouraged
- Essential businesses, construction, and manufacturing
- Hospitals and health centers can begin high priority preventative care and treatment for high-risk patients during Phase 1
What Businesses Can Reopen in Phase 1 on May 25?
- Labs and life science facilities
- Offices that are not in Boston can reopen. However, offices have to be limited to less than 25% max occupancy. Work from home is still strongly encouraged.
- Hair salons, barbershops and pet grooming, by appointment only.
- Car Washes, however, exterior washing only
- Retail for remote services and curbside pick-up
- With guidelines, beaches, drive-in theaters, athletic fields, parks, outdoor gardens, fishing, hunting and boating can open
- Emergency-based child care can open at a reduced capacity. These are for children of workers with no safe alternative to group care.
Any other stipulations for Phase 1?
- Before reopening, businesses will be required to meet new COVID-19 workplace safety standards
- These guidelines include social distancing, hygiene protocols as well as cleaning and disinfecting.
In addition, Governor Baker’s reopening plan features lofty goals for increased COVID-19 testing. This plan includes ramping up to capacity for 45k tests a day by the end of July, and 75k by the end of December.
We’ll be covering more of the Massachusetts Reopening updates here as we learn more information. Boston Mayor Marty Walsh plans to address the public tomorrow on what Governor Baker’s plan means for Bostonians.
