By Mike McGann, Editor, The Times @mikemcgannpa
Chester County is — sort of — open for business.
Gov. Tom Wolf signed an amended executive order moving the last 10 counties from red — or Stay At Home — status to Yellow, allowing limited business openings, a return to limited retail operations, and the start of outdoor dining at many area restaurants.
Still, there remain a number of restrictions — people should still wear masks in public and observe social distancing. Also, schools, gyms, and other indoor recreation centers, hair and nail salons remain closed, as well as limitations around large gatherings, remain in place.
Here’s what is allowed:
- Business can open, but telework must continue where feasible
- Businesses with in-person operations must Follow Business and Building Safety Orders
- Child Care may open complying with guidance
- Congregate Care and prison restrictions in place
- Schools may provide in-person instruction only in accordance with Department of Education guidance
Social Restrictions:
- Stay-at-Home order lifted for aggressive mitigation
- Large gatherings of more than 25 prohibited
- In-Person retail allowable, curbside and delivery preferable
- Indoor recreation, health and wellness facilities and personal care services (such as gyms, spas, hair salons, nail salons and other entities that provide massage therapy), and all entertainment (such as casinos, theaters) remain closed
- Restaurants and bars may open outdoor dining, in addition to carry-out and delivery
County officials stress the importance of continuing to take care — the goal remains for the county to reach Green Status by the end of the month. That move depends on whether “overall risk remains mitigated for 14 days.”
