PORTLAND, Ore. — Clackamas County has been approved to enter Phase 1 of Oregon Gov. Kate Brown’s plan for reopening the state.
Brown announced Friday afternoon that Clackamas County will be able to begin its gradual reopening on Saturday, May 23.
That means the following restrictions will be eased:
- Restaurants and bars for sit-down service: Requirements include 6 feet of social distancing; a limit of groups to parties of 10 or fewer; food and drink consumption must end by 10 p.m.; and workers are required to wear masks. See more details on the requirements
- Barbers, salons and massage businesses: Requirements include social distancing; appointment-only; and a personal protective equipment and customer list. See more details on the requirements
- Gyms and fitness centers: Requirements include a maximum gathering limit; social distancing; and sanitation. See more details on the requirements
- In-person gatherings: Up to 25 people, no travel
"I know this has been very difficult for all of us," said Clackamas County Chair Jim Bernard in a Facebook message. "We need to make sure everyone stays healthy and stays safe."
In order to be approved for Phase 1, Oregon counties had to meet prerequisites including a decline in COVID-19 cases, contact tracing capabilities, plans for quarantines of new cases, hospital capacity and protective equipment for health care workers.
Clackamas County must remain in Phase 1 for at least three weeks before it can become eligible for Phase 2.
"I was very excited," said Grant Farrell, owner of The Growler Run in Oregon City. "We have three beertenders and they were all ecstatic. I think this is going to be a great thing for the morale of everybody."
Thirty-one Oregon counties began Phase 1 on May 15. Marion and Polk counties entered Phase 1 on Friday.
Only two counties, Washington and Multnomah, have not been approved for Phase 1.
Washington County submitted its application Friday, while Multnomah County has not yet applied.