Governor Baker Announces Phase One Of His Reopening Plan

By JULIE CUNNINGHAM

(Boston, MA) Today Governor Charlie Baker announced the first phase in the four phased plan to reopen the Commonwealth. On May 18, manufacturing facilities and construction companies are permitted to reopen with social distancing guidelines in place. On May 25, lab spaces, office space, pet grooming facilities, hair salons, car washes, and retail establishments are permitted to reopen with restrictions. Office spaces must open at 25% capacity, and retail establishments can use curbside pickup and remote fulfillment. Religious institutions are also allowed to carefully open today and must keep the reopening guidance in mind. Baker said he is cautious in the approach to reopen the state, in light of the ongoing threat of another spike in COVID-19 cases.

“The toll this virus takes and continues to take on many of us is staggering,” said Baker.

Each phase of the reopening will last three weeks, and Baker said that data must indicate that it is appropriate to move to the next phase in order to move forward in the process. With the new reopening process comes a new Safer at Home Advisory, which replaces the Stay At Home advisory issued by Baker in March. The Safer at Home advisory asks residents to remain at home unless traveling to a newly reopened business or conducting essential activities such as grocery shopping or seeking medical care. Further, people over the age of 65 who are more vulnerable to the virus are encouraged to stay home when possible, and leave only for necessities.

“This is not permanent,” Baker urged.

Lt. Governor Karyn Polito said that enforcement of these social distancing measures and phased reopening plan is meant to encourage education and compliance. Individual needs of each sector of the economy are still paramount to the reopening process.

” It is important that we listen to and support our businesses throughout the Commonwealth,” said Polito.

It is still possible that summer camps will reopen in phase two of the plan, with CDC guidance, and that information will be available in the next couple of weeks. Public transportation will slowly ramp back up as well. Riders must still wear face coverings and take measures to socially distance themselves, and employers are asked to stagger shifts and be aware of the rush hour traffic that might put crowds onto public transportation. The T in Boston will be using disinfectant to keep the community and workers safe and proper Personal Protective Equipment will be provided for workers.

For more guidance regarding the four phase plan and safety guidelines during the process visit the reopening page on the mass.gov website or click here.