By Joshua Huff, sports editor
MONTGOMERY — Alabama’s next step towards the return to a semblance of normalcy begins today, April 30, at 5 p.m. when Gov. Kay Ivey’s stay-at-home order morphs into the safer-at-home order.
The safer-at-home order relaxes several rules stipulated in the previous order, but keeps in place the majority of closures throughout the state. The new order opens all retail stores, beaches and allows for elective medical procedures. Those businesses that are to remain closed are educational institutions, restaurants, bars, breweries, entertainment venues, athletic faculties and close-contact service providers.
“I look forward to easing back into our routines with caution,” Ivey said during a press conference on Tuesday morning. “Just like we eased into this current stay-at-home order. We will also be thoughtful and careful as we ease back into our social interactions.”
Though retails stores will now be open, Ivey still recommends that people remain at home unless its vital that they travel.
As a result of the new order, shopping centers throughout The Tribune coverage are set to open. The Outlet Shops at Grand River, in Leeds, will open its doors on Friday with altered hours running from Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 6 p.m. The stores within the outlet mall are expected to have an open-door policy, maintain social distancing guidelines, occupancy limits and provide hand sanitation.
Stores located within The Pinnacle at Tutwiler Farms, in Trussville, will open at their own discretion.
Also, keep in mind that cities, such as Birmingham, and select stores have made it mandatory to wear a face mask.
The safer at home order is as follows:
NEW UPDATES
- Individuals are encouraged to stay at home.
- Businesses can open subject to sanitation and social-distancing guidelines; certain higher-risk businesses and activities remain closed.
- All retail stores are to reopen with 50% capacity. Must practice social distancing and hand sanitation.
- Beaches are to open with no gatherings of 10 people or more and must maintain 6 feet of separation.
- Medical procedures are allowed and must follow COVID-19-related rules.
WHAT STAYS THE SAME
- Non-work gatherings are still limited to 10 people or less with 6 feet of distance maintained.
- Senior citizen centers are still to suspend regular programming except meals.
- Schools are still closed.
- Childcare facilities must not allow 12 or more children in room.
- Hospitals and nursing homes implement policies to restrict visitation.
- Restaurants, bars and breweries are closed to dine in; take-out, curbside or delivery only allowed.
- Night clubs, theaters, bowling alleys, gyms, barbershops, hair salons, tattoo services still closed.
- Churches are closed for in-house worship.