INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb gave Hoosiers a roadmap to reopening the Indiana economy as the COVID-19 pandemic continues, which has five stages that lead to an anticipated full reopening by July 4.
Some relaxation of the state’s stay-at-home order (Phase 1) will occur as early as Monday, with the exception of three counties, Marion, Lake and Cass, who will remain under lockdown until mid-May.
Holcomb said Indiana is entering Stage 2 on Monday, after the Stage 1 lockdown, with an understanding that Hoosiers who are 65 years or older or those who have a high risk for COVID-19 because of an underlying medical condition, should remain at home. Some restrictions will be lifted, including lifting the essential travel limitations and allowing gatherings of up to 25 people, Holcomb said.
Retail stores including shopping malls will be allowed to open at 50 percent capacity, according to the governor. Restaurants will be allowed to open at 50 percent capacity beginning May 11, with no bar seating. Personal services such as hair and nail salons and tattoo parlors may also open May 11 by appointment only and must follow social distancing guidelines.
Holcomb said during this stage, he is encouraging any workers who can work remotely should continue to do so, and are encouraged to continue.
For churches, Holcomb said facilities may reopen May 8 for worship services, but must follow social distancing guidelines. The governor encouraged any individual age 65 or older or those with underlying medical conditions should stay home in this stage.
If data continues to support a continued gradual reopening, on May 24, Stage 3 will begin, Holcomb said. Those age 65 and older may venture out “cautiously,” he said, and social gatherings of up to 100 people will be allowed. Retail may be open at a 75 percent capacity with playgrounds, pools, gyms and fitness facilities will be allowed to reopen with social distancing.
Stage 4 will begin on June 14, when face coverings and masks will become optional and facilities such as zoos, museums and recreational facilities may open at 50 percent capacity. Social gatherings of 250 people will be allowed and large venues may reopen with proper social distancing guidelines.
Holcomb said business offices may resume work at full capacity while restaurants may increase to 75 percent capacity and bar seating at 50 percent. Recreational sports leagues and sporting competitions may resume at 50 percent capacity.
By July 4, the state hopes that conventions, fairs, the Indiana State Fair and other large events will be allowed, retail will be at full capacity and restrictions will be lifted at amusement parks and other large venues.
“At that point, we will decide how to approach the next school year,” Holcomb said, saying the entire process will be a data-driven methodical process.
For more on this story, see Saturday’s Republic.
