What Can Open March 1 In Massachusetts

MASSACHUSETTS — Gov. Charlie Baker pressed play on the state's reopening plan Thursday in light of encouraging public health data. The state had previously paused reopening at Phase 3, Step 1 as it fought a surge in cases during the holiday season.

Starting March 1, the following restrictions will be eased:

50 Percent Capacity

• Indoor performance venues like concert halls, theaters (500-person maximum)
• Indoor recreational activities such as laser tag, roller skating, trampolines and obstacle courses
• Arcades
• Indoor and outdoor recreation businesses
• Close contact personal services
• Driving and flight schools
• Fitness centers and health clubs
• Indoor golf facilities
• Libraries
• Common spaces in lodging
• Museums
• Cultural and historic facilities
• Guided tours
• Office spaces
• Retailers
• Places of worship

Restaurants

Effective March 1, there will not be a percent seated capacity limit on restaurants, but they will be required to keep tables six feet apart.

Live music will be allowed at restaurants with required distancing. There will still be a 90-minute limit on tables and maximum capacity of six people per table.

Food courts will remain closed.

What's Next

If positive data trends continue, the state will move to Phase 4, Step 1 March 22. This means stadiums, arenas and ballparks can reopen at 12 percent capacity.

Overnight camps will be able to open this summer. Exhibition and convention halls may reopen with capacity restrictions.

Dance floors will be allowed at weddings and events only.

Fairs, Theme Parks Stay Closed

Traditional bars without food, nightclubs, saunas, steam rooms, road races, parades and amusement parks are in Phase 4, Step 2.