CT 3rd Reopening Phase Starts: Here Are The Changes

CONNECTICUT — Connecticut’s third reopening phase starts Thursday after being delayed since July. Many businesses will be allowed to increase capacity, though nightclubs and bars will remain closed for the foreseeable future.

Capacity limits will increase from 50 to 75 percent for indoor dining, hair salons, barber shops, personal services and libraries. The move to increase indoor restaurant capacity as cold weather approaches was hailed by the restaurant industry. Restaurant tables will still need to be 6 feet apart or separated with plexiglass barriers.

Outdoor event venue capacity at amphitheaters and racetracks will increase from 25 to 50 percent capacity.

Gov. Ned Lamont said Connecticut has earned the right to take a little bit more risk since most residents have followed mask and social distancing guidelines.

“By taking the sector rules seriously, wearing masks, physically distancing, and washing your hands regularly, I believe that we can continue to keep these rates low while also easing some of the restrictions that were enacted earlier this year,” Gov. Ned Lamont said in an announcement. “I applaud the residents of our state for what they’ve been doing, and urge them to keep it up.”

Indoor performing arts venues can open up to 50 percent capacity.

Below are more changes in phase 3. They come with the caveat that social distancing and mask use must be enforced whether indoors or outdoors:

• Private gatherings at commercial establishments, such as wedding venues, will increase from 25 people indoors to 50 percent capacity or 100 people, whichever is less. Outdoors, the limit will increase from 100 to 150 people.
• Graduation ceremonies: Indoor ceremonies will now be allowed at 50 percent capacity and capped at 200 attendees. Outdoor graduations will be allowed up to 50 percent capacity; previously the limit was 150 people.
• Religious gatherings: The limit will be 50 percent capacity, capped at 200 people indoors. The previous limit was 25 percent capacity and capped at 100 people. Outdoors, the limit will increase from 150 people to 50 percent capacity with no cap.

Connecticut’s first reopening phase started in May and was followed by the second phase in June.