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North Carolina restaurants and businesses can open Friday

POLK COUNTY—Restaurants and some other businesses in Polk County and around the state can reopen Friday with some restrictions.

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper announced the phase II plan of reopening on Wednesday.

Cooper said restaurants, barber shops and salons can reopen as the state’s COVID-19 numbers remain stable.

Bars, gyms and other indoor entertainment venues, including movie theaters, will remained closed for 5 more weeks, according to Cooper.

The governor allowed other businesses to reopen 2 weeks ago, but limited them to 50 percent capacity. This week’s order also always pools to reopen, but with a reduced number of swimmers.

Restaurants, salons and other businesses will be subject to social distancing and cleaning requirements, according to the order. Some employees will be required to wear facemasks.

Mass gatherings at outdoor venues will now be allowed, but capped at 25 people. The social gatherings indoors remains at 10 people, but those restrictions no longer apply to churches. A federal judge recently ruled against Cooper’s limits on indoor worship. Congregations who choose to meet are still urged to comply with social distancing rules. Some area churches have announced they will have services this weekend.

South Carolina allowed restaurants to open with 50 percent capacity this week and also are following social distancing recommendations.