Berkeley Expands Reopening As Alameda County Moves To Orange Tier

BERKELEY, CA — Berkeley health officials announced Tuesday that some coronavirus restrictions will be lifted.

The move follows the state’s announcement Tuesday that Alameda County was among 13 counties moved to the orange tier.

No counties moved backward on California's color-coded reopening map on Tuesday, and the state reported a seven-day 1.6 percent positivity rate — a new low for the Golden State.

Berkeley’s move to the orange tier goes into effect Wednesday.

Under the orange tier retail and grocery stores can open at 100 percent capacity, indoor dining, movie theaters, museums and houses of worship at 50 percent capacity, and gyms at 25 percent capacity.

Breweries and wineries serving food can open at 25 percent indoor capacity and bars can open outdoors without serving food.

Berkeley officials on Tuesday said despite the relaxing of some rules the public is urged to continue following social distancing guidelines and mask wearing.

The lifting of some restrictions doesn’t mean the pandemic is over, Berkeley Health Officer Dr. Lisa B. Hernandez said

"Even as more activities open up, we must not forget that the virus is still circulating in our community, new variants are emerging and cases are rising in other parts of the country,” Hernandez said.

"To navigate our way through the pandemic, we need to use all the tools available - from face coverings to physical distance and hand hygiene. And when it's your turn, get vaccinated as soon as possible."

Officials reported significant progress in the vaccine rollout.

Among all Berkeleyans over the age of 16, data shows that roughly 27 percent are fully vaccinated - an increase from 12 percent three weeks ago.

Starting Thursday, vaccinations are open to everyone who is at least 50 years old, as well as people who are at least 16 years old who have certain underlying health conditions or work in certain workplace sectors.

Vaccinations are expected to be open to all over 16 by April 15.

See state vaccine guidelines for details here.

— Patch Staffer Kat Schuster contributed to this report