Coronavirus: Here's What Can Reopen In Minnesota Wednesday

MINNESOTA — Limited reopening of dine-in restaurants, bars, gyms, and entertainment venues can begin Wednesday as Minnesota continues to loosen more coronavirus restrictions. Occupancy rates will be limited based on risk, according to Gov. Tim Walz, with an overall occupancy maximum of 250 people.

Here's what can reopen Wednesday under Phase III of Minnesota's "Stay Safe" order:

• Restaurants and bars can begin offering indoor dining while maintaining social distancing, requiring reservations, and seating no more than 50 percent occupancy.
• Indoor social gatherings can take place with 10 people or less; outdoor social gatherings can take place with 25 people or less.
• Gyms, personal fitness and yoga studios, and martial arts may open at 25 percent capacity.
• Indoor entertainment venues, such as theaters and concert halls, can open at 25 percent capacity.
• Recreational indoor entertainment venues, such as bowling alleys, arcades, and museums may open at 25 percent capacity.
• Personal services, such as salons, tattoo parlors, and barbershops, may increase occupancy rates to 50 percent while requiring reservations.
• Outdoor entertainment venues, such as sporting events, concerts, and theaters may open at 25 percent capacity.
• Places of worship can increase occupancy rates to 50 percent.

Minnesota has prepared for a reopening by working with the health care sector to expand health care capacity and procure ICU beds, ventilators, and personal protective equipment, according to a news release.

More testing available

There are now dozens of COVID-19 testing facilities and drive-up stations in the Twin Cities and across Minnesota. Health officials say people involved in protests, vigils, or neighborhood events related to the death of George Floyd are especially encouraged to get tested, as the virus can spread easily in large crowds.

Find a testing location in your area here.