(Scott Eisen/Getty Images)
(BOSTON) Gov. Charlie Baker announced Thursday that Massachusetts will be moving into step two of phase three of the state’s reopening plan on March 1, citing drops in average daily COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations and the continued increase of vaccination rates.
Step two of phase three originally started in October 2020, but due to an increase in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, the state reverted back to step one in December 2020.
In step two, the following updates will take effect:
- Indoor performance venues such as concert halls, theaters and other indoor performance spaces will be allowed to reopen at 50% capacity with no more than 500 persons.
- Indoor recreational activities with greater potential for contact (laser tag, roller skating, trampolines, obstacle courses) will be allowed to reopen at 50% capacity.
- Capacity limits across all sectors with capacity limits will be raised to 50% and exclude employees.
- Restaurants will no longer have a percent capacity limit and will be permitted to host musical performances; six-foot social distancing, limits of six people per table and 90 minute limits remain in place.
Baker also announced that an additional 1,108 businesses throughout the state are receiving COVID-19 relief grants totaling more than $49 million. The grants are expected to assist businesses with expenses such as payroll, benefits, utilities and rent.
Baker said that the state expects to be prepared to move into step one of phase four on March 22. This step will allow indoor and outdoor stadiums, arenas and ballparks to operate at 12% capacity.