Gov. Ralph Northam on Friday gave more details about the upcoming first phase of Forward Virginia, the plan to reopen businesses in the state.
In March, the governor issued executive orders shutting down many businesses in the state as concerns about the spread of coronavirus increased. Entertainment and personal services businesses closed, and retailers went under restrictions to increase physical distancing between customers and staff.
“We had one blunt tool: shutting everything down,” Gov. Northam said Friday afternoon. That tool seems to have worked — hospitals have not been overwhelmed, and the shutdown gave the state time to “build up our toolbox.” There are now very few problems with providing enough equipment to hospitals, and more equipment is on its way today.
The trend line showing the positive tests as a percentage of all tests given has been going down — a good sign, according to state officials.
Virginia Dept. of Health
This graph shows tests resulting in positive diagnoses of COVID-19 as a percentage of all tests completed in Virginia.
Gov. Northam still anticipates phase one will start this Friday, May 15 statewide.
However, some localities in Northern Virginia are discussing whether, as a region, phase one should start on May 15 or be delayed.
“I have said that phase one restrictions will be a floor, not a ceiling, and local governments can consult with our administration about stricter regulations.”
Regional coalitions are having those discussions now, including officials from the Northern Virginia Regional Commission, and more details will be available next week. Officials in Northern Virginia have not made any final decision or announcement at this time.
"If those entities as a region say, 'Hey, we would like to delay entering phase one by two weeks,' I think the governor would be open to doing that,” said Gov. Northam's Chief of Staff Clark Mercer at Friday afternoon's news conference.
“While our tools to fight this virus have changed, our commitment has not,” Gov. Northam said. “We are not opening the flood gates here. We are not flipping a light switch from closed to open…. This plan will slowly and deliberately ease some of the restrictions, but not all.”
The following charts show what Virginia residents and businesses can expect going forward. Phase one will last a minimum of two weeks with a decision based on health metrics from the Virginia Dept. of Health.
No business is required by the state to be open.
The charts below were released during a Friday afternoon news conference and provides more information on what Virginia's reopening will look like.
- Unlike other states, Virginia is not fully reopening beaches, and amusement parks and many entertainment venues will remain closed during this first phase of reopening. Gyms will remain closed except for outdoor fitness.
- Personal grooming services may reopen by appointment only and face masks and physical distancing measures will be required.
- Restaurants will continue being open for takeout and delivery. Restaurants with outdoor seating may open those patios at 50% capacity.
- Churches and other places of worship may open at 50% capacity and are encouraged to continue drive-in and virtual services.
Additional details are below:
