Earlier this week, Governor Northam announced that Virginia will be moving into Phase Three of reopening on Wednesday, July 1. Governor Northam said he anticipates that Northern Virginia will transition with the rest of the state. Phase Two guidelines remain in effect through June 30.
In Phase Three, the Commonwealth will maintain a Safer at Home strategy with continued recommendations for social distancing and teleworking, and the requirement that individuals wear face coverings in indoor public settings. The maximum number of individuals allowed in social gatherings will increase from 50 to 250 people. All businesses should continue to follow physical distancing guidelines, frequently clean and sanitize high contact surfaces, and keep enhanced workplace safety measures in place.
Restaurant and beverage establishments are required to maintain six feet of distance between tables, fitness centers may open indoor areas at 75 percent occupancy, and recreation and entertainment venues may operate at 50 percent occupancy, or a maximum of 1,000 persons. Swimming pools may also expand operations to free swim in addition to indoor and outdoor exercise, diving, and swim instruction. Overnight summer camps will remain closed in Phase Three.
Phase Three Summary
- Safer at home – especially if you are vulnerable
- No social gatherings of more than 250 individuals
- Continued social distancing
- Continued teleworking strongly encouraged
- Face coverings required in indoor public spaces
- Expanded business operations
Phase Three guidelines can be found in English here and in Spanish here. Governor Northam’s presentation outlining Phase Three can be found here.
Visit virginia.gov/coronavirus/forwardvirginia for more information and answers to frequently asked questions.