COVID restrictions: LA County officials announce some businesses, public spaces can reopen with safety precautions Friday
Officials announced that certain types of businesses and locations in Los Angeles County that were temporarily shuttered amid the coronavirus pandemic will be allowed to reopen.
LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Health and elected officials on Wednesday announced that certain types of businesses and public spaces in Los Angeles County that were temporarily shuttered amid the coronavirus pandemic will be allowed to reopen with safety precautions on Friday.
Speaking at a daily briefing, county Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Kathryn Barger said the first round of reopenings will include trails, trailheads, golf courses, car dealership showrooms, and stores that sell toys, books, clothing, sporting goods and music. Pro shops and dine-in restaurants at golf courses are to remain shuttered.
The revised "safer-at-home" order will only allow for curbside pickup at the businesses, Barger emphasized. In-store shopping will continue to be banned for the time being.
Beaches will also remain closed, although public health director Dr. Barbara Ferrer said a plan for reopening the coastline has been developed and could be implemented "in the very near future."
Governor Newsom announces phase 2 of reopening parts of California to start as early as Friday
The unveiling of the gradual reopening of the county's economy comes a day after Gov. Gavin Newsom said it was appropriate for some businesses and outdoor areas to begin opening up again on Friday.
According to Barger, the unveiling of the L.A. County plan followed conversations between county and state officials aimed at ensuring that any easing of restrictions is in the best interest of the health of residents. She said the county could not be more lenient than the state dictates.
"What's best for other counties may not necessarily be right for Los Angeles County," the board chair said. "As we are the most densely populated county in the state, our guidelines will certainly look different than others."
At the same news conference, Ferrer reported 55 new coronavirus-related deaths, bringing the county's death toll to 1,367 amid 28,644 cases.
Mayor Eric Garcetti discusses plans for reopening Los Angeles
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti confirmed the city will follow the county's guidelines in reopening some retail businesses for curbside service. He said the city will also reopen many of its hiking trails and trailhead parks as well as golf courses. The popular Runyon Canyon will remain closed.
But anyone using those city hiking trails and golf courses will have to wear face coverings, even if alone, he said, noting that even by yourself you could turn a corner "and suddenly be face-to-face with someone."
The mayor also emphasized the need to continue to practice physical distancing.
"There's only so much work that we can do, so we need your help. And I know that as you have done, you will rise to the occasion," Garcetti said. "This is not some sort of green light to slack off."
Garcetti added that anyone who is over 65 or has underlying health conditions is still expected to stay at home and not participate in those recreational activities.
Garcetti also said travelers at Los Angeles International Airport will also be required to wear face coverings starting Monday.
