The 60 percent surprise

225
Advertisement

Hello everyone,

Gov. John Carney had a bit of surprise earlier this week for beleaguered restaurants and other businesses dealing with a 30 percent restriction on capacity under Phase 1 of the state’s reopening plan.

Rather than going with the widely anticipated 50 percent figure, the occupancy rate was bumped up to 60 percent for Phase 2, which becomes effective on June 15.

The news was overshadowed by an unsettled period in the state and nation following the death of George Floyd. All four Minneapolis officers involved in the death have now been charged as protests continue.

Meanwhile, Maryland moved to its Stage 2, which shares many similarities with Delaware’s plan. Interestingly enough, Maryland is still uncomfortable with inside dining and is sticking to decks and patios as we begin to see the region’s blend of heat and humidity.

Advertisement

None of this means it will be business as usual in either state.  Social distancing restrictions will limit space and a few establishments.

Still, 60 percent occupancy gives hospitality businesses more flexibility in configuring their space and perhaps getting to the break-even point, provided diners show up.

Facemasks will still be required in retail settings and if a customer is moving about the dining room or store.

State health officials and the governor are becoming increasingly confident that the loosened restrictions will not result in out-of-control outbreaks of COVID-19. 

Testing is widely available and no longer requires a doctor’s note.

Hospitalizations also continue to drop, even though stepped up testing efforts are still coming up with more than 50 positive cases a day.

The 60 percent figure is no guarantee that we will see anything close to normal in the short term. 

The restaurant casualty rate continues to climb. in a category where CARES Act programs fall short of providing a lifeline.

Still, the revised figures give more establishments a fighting chance. – Doug Rainey, chief content officer.

Advertisement
Advertisement