W.Va.’s Justice announces phase three openings

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Gyms and drive-in movie theaters will be among the businesses scheduled to reopen during the third phase of the statewide plan to open businesses amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Gov. Jim Justice announced Monday plans for the third week of “West Virginia Strong: The Comeback.” The day marked the start of week two, allowing businesses with 10 or fewer employees to reopen as well as restaurants for outdoor dining and churches. Social gatherings can also be increased to 25 people or less.

In phase three, gyms and wellness centers operated by a licensed health care provider must restrict occupancy by 50%, implement rules promoting social distancing and ensure equipment is clean. Showers, locker rooms, swimming pools and employee-congregate areas should remain closed.

Employees and patrons are also asked to wear appropriate personal protective equipment.

For drive-in movie theaters, customers are being asked to purchase tickets in advance or through means other than cash if possible. Customers cannot wait outside of their cars while getting food.

The state Department of Health and Human Resources has to report three consecutive days of a positive test rate below 3% for phase three to go into effect; Monday’s evening test rate was 2..26%, marking the first day of the trend.