With health officials in San Luis Obispo County working on a phased approach to re-open the local economy, a date for the re-opening of dine-in restaurants has not been given.
Health officials re-iterated the message Thursday morning following a story that aired on the Today Show, which incorrectly mentioned dine-in restaurants would re-open May 1.
"We have the components in place to really be turning the dialogue to this phased re-opening,” SLO County Public Health Officer Dr. Penny Borenstein said during a press conference this week.
The county is working to have a plan in place by next week and says the re-opening process will likely take a few months.
They add that they’ll be keeping a steady eye on the COVID-19 case count to determine if restrictions need to be tightened again.
At a press conference Wednesday, county officials announced new guidelines for certain businesses and organizations that may resume operation:
- Houses of worship can have drive-in services as long as individuals remain in their vehicles. Physical sharing or passing of items is highly discouraged
- Janitorial and housekeeping services can operate
- Retail stores that sell fabric can operate so community members can make face coverings
- Drive-in theaters can operate
All of the new guidelines are dependent on those involved following the health department's physical distancing recommendations.
“We are not returning to business as usual. This does not mean people can ignore the Shelter at Home order,” said Dr. Penny Borenstein, County Health Officer. “People should still stay home as much as possible, stay home if they are sick, wash their hands frequently, maintain a safe six feet of physical distance from others when outside of the home, and wear face coverings when they cannot keep a safe six feet from others.”