Reopening Washington: 6 Things To Know

SEATTLE — Gov. Jay Inslee signed the first phase of Washington's "Safe Start" reopening plan this week, laying the groundwork for a gradual easing of coronavirus restrictions across the state.

Each step of the governor's four-part plan allows more businesses and activities to return in weeks and months ahead, based on five risk assessment categories.

Here's what we know so far:

We're in phase 1. What does that mean?

Inslee's stay-at-home order remains in effect through May 31, but the first phase of the plan restores certain businesses and recreational activities early.

So far, the governor's office has released specific guidance for vehicle sales, boat sales, drive-in religious services, car washes, and outdoor recreation. Landscaping, lawn care, pet-walking and curb-side retail services will be allowed, with certain safeguards, once updated guidance is released. The governor's order set a deadline of May 15 for all phase 1 requirements to be shared with the public.

Limited recreation, including hunting, fishing, golfing, hiking and boating is allowed among members of your immediate household. Parks are permitted to reopen for day visits, but camping and long-distance trips remain prohibited.

What is the timeline for each phase?

Inslee said at least three weeks will separate each step of the reopening plan, but that timeline can be extended depending on the virus's behavior. Should the number of cases and deaths begin to rise, restrictions that were previously lifted could be reinstated.

Secretary of Health John Wiesman said the state tentatively plans to enact the second phase of the plan by June 1. Under the earliest possible timeline, phase 3 could begin June 22, and phase 4 could begin July 13.

Due to the expected timeline, it is highly unlikely a ban on large gatherings would be lifted before Independence Day, putting Fourth of July celebrations in jeopardy across the state. Annual celebrations in Lakewood and Edmonds have already been canceled.

Can some areas open earlier than others?

Under the governor's order, counties with a population under 75,000, and no new infections within three weeks, can apply to activate phase 2 early. Inslee said approximately 10 counties meet that requirement: Jefferson, Lincoln, Pend Oreille, Skamania, Wahkiakum, Kittitas, Ferry and Grays Harbor.

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When can I see friends again?

The second reopening phase allows for gatherings and recreational activities with fewer than five people outside your household, including camping and visits to the beach. The third phase will restore gatherings for up to 50 people, including recreational sports.

What about restaurants? Bars? Concerts? Gyms?

Under phase 2, restaurants will be allowed to reopen at 50% capacity, with each table limited to five diners. Bars will remain closed to in-person visits until the third phase, and limited to 25% capacity until the fourth and final phase. Gyms will be allowed to reopen at 50% capacity in the third phase. Nightclubs and concert venues will remain shuttered until phase 4 when the cap on all gatherings and recreational activities is lifted.

What determines when Washington will reach each phase?

Between each step, the Department of Health and the governor's office evaluate the overall coronavirus activity in the state, along with four metrics that help determine Washington's readiness. Each data point is represented visually as a dial, which the state updates every Wednesday.

The dials were updated for the first time this week, and improvements were recorded among three of the five categories.

Inslee also announced the formation of three advisory panels, including business and community leaders, that will help the state determine how to safely reopen each sector. Specific guidance will be released for each type of business shuttered by earlier orders, before they are allowed to reopen.

Learn more about the "Safe Start" plan here.

Read the state's "Guidelines for Enforcement" here.