Many parents were relieved to hear that outdoor pools will be allowed to open at 50 percent capacity and splash pads at full capacity as of May 1.
Restrictions on aqua facilities, which remained fully closed throughout 2020, are only one of many to be loosened as May begins.
At her April 5 press conference, Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) announced that many COVID-19 related restrictions in phase two are set to be relaxed on May 1 including:
- Seated live entertainment at 25 percent capacity or up to 500 people
- Movie theaters at 25 percent capacity
- Weddings, special events and regional business meetings at 25 percent capacity
- Indoor and outdoor public pools and recreation centers at 50 percent capacity
- Museums, galleries, exhibits and libraries at 50 percent capacity
- Non-essential retail at 50 percent capacity
- Outdoor splash pads at full capacity
- School graduation and awards ceremonies will be allowed with capacity limits; further guidance to be issued this week
- Live music near dining areas will be allowed
Bowser said that there are currently no plans to increase capacity at Nationals Stadium or Audi Field, adding that waivers are being considered. She said she is also no closer to allowing fans at Capitol One Arena, home of the Washington Capitols and Washington Wizards, has yet been made. The decision will be re-evaluated later in April, she said.
The Mayor encouraged all DC residents to get the vaccine as soon as they are able to reserve an appointment time and emphasized the importance of continuing to adhere to community guidelines for mask wearing and social distancing as the reopening process continues.
DC reported 75 new COVID-19 cases as of April 4, and two deaths from the virus.
Sarah Payne is a History and Neuroscience student at The University of Michigan interning with HillRag. She writes for and serves as an assistant news editor for Michigan’s student newspaper, The Michigan Daily. You can reach her at sarahp@hillrag.com.
