Baltimore County Will Move Ahead With Modified Phase 3 Plan

BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD — Effective Friday at 5 p.m., Baltimore County will proceed with Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan's modified Phase 3 reopening plan, which includes the opening of enclosed and outdoor theaters with various restrictions and the loosening of restrictions on retail and religious facilities.

Face masks still will be required of individuals ages five and older who are in any indoor business, service, organization or establishment that serves the general public. Individuals ages five and older are required to wear face coverings when outdoors and unable to consistently maintain at least six feet of distance from individuals who are not members of their household.

According to state data, Baltimore County’s positivity rate has remained below 5 percent since July 7 and currently is 4.4 percent—a 67 percent reduction since May 29. Baltimore County’s case rate is 1,800 cases per 100,000 residents, which is 35 percent lower than Prince George’s County, 22 percent lower than Baltimore City and two percent lower than Montgomery County.

Under Hogan's latest order:

• Indoor theaters may operate up to 50 percent capacity or 100 people, whichever is lower. State reopening guidance for theaters is available here (PDF).
• Outdoor entertainment venues may operate up to 50 percent capacity or 250 people, whichever is lower.
• All retail establishments and religious facilities may now operate up to 75 percent capacity.

Under the state order, indoor dining at food service establishments remains limited up to 50 percent capacity.

“Baltimore County has taken significant steps to combat the COVID-19 pandemic while gradually and safely reopening our economy. Thanks to our efforts, and the efforts of county residents to protect themselves and their loved ones, we’ve seen continued progress. I’ve consistently said that a patchwork approach to reopening only confuses residents, puts businesses who are just miles apart on unequal playing fields and limits the public health impact of any individual jurisdiction’s decisions. By continuing to align with the state, Baltimore County is providing clarity for our residents—though these steps do not mean we can let our guard down," said Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski in a statement.

Olszewski continued to say that residents must do everything they can to slow the spread of the virus.

"That means following the science which says wearing face coverings and socially distancing wherever possible are still our best tools in the fight against COVID-19," he said. "This dangerous disease is still with us and I urge all our residents and businesses to continue to follow the best public health guidance. In the days and weeks ahead, we will continue to strictly enforce state laws and guidelines—any businesses found to be violating face-covering or social distancing mandates, will be held accountable. As with every step we have taken, we will continue to monitor this situation and will not hesitate to do whatever is necessary to protect the public’s health. We're still in this together and can only get through this together.”