What To Expect In Western PA's Green Reopening Phase

PITTSBURGH, PA — Sixteen more counties are going to the green phase of the state's reopening plan next week, among them every western Pennsylvania county save for Beaver, Gov. Tom Wolf announced Friday.

While going green further loosens the restrictions that have been in place during the coronavirus outbreak, it still does not signal a return to life as it was before the pandemic. Here are the answers to some questions you might have regarding what the green phase will be like:

• Can you finally get a haircut?

Yes. But hair salons and barber shops must operate by appointment only.

• Can you finally go the the gym or spa?

Yes, but reservations are strongly encouraged.

• Can you go to your local tavern?

Yes, but you must observe social distancing and stay at least six feet from anyone else seated at the bar, unless the tavern has physical barriers in place between customers. Standing in a bar area is not permitted. A maximum of four customers that have a common relationship can sit together at the bar while maintaining social distancing from other customers.

• Can you have a meal in a restaurant?

Yes. Restaurants can reopen their interiors to diners but must keep tables at least six feet apart.

• Can you see your favorite band at PPG Paints Arena?

No. any gathering for a planned or spontaneous event of more than 250 people is prohibited. That includes concerts, festivals, fairs, conferences, sporting events, movies and theatrical performances.

• Can you go to a Pirates game at PNC Park?

No. While professional sports can resume while observing mandated guidelines, fans will not be permitted into venues.

• Can you resume going to a church, synagogue, temple or mosque?

Yes, but places of congregate worship are strongly encouraged to enforce social distancing and other mitigation measures, such as requiring masks, at their gatherings.

• Can you visit a friend or relative in the hospital?

Yes.

• Can you visit a family member in a nursing home?

Not immediately. Because of the critical importance of limiting COVID-19 exposure in nursing homes, visitation restrictions initially will remain in place.