By Kathy Chouteau
Contra Costa County has received more control this week over when activities restricted by the COVID-19 pandemic may resume.
A variance from the State of California empowers the County to proceed toward reopening at a pace relevant to local conditions, per a statement from Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS). The variance follows an attestation filed by CCHS outlining local progress at managing COVID-19’s spread and preparations for a possible surge in cases.
“We are able to reopen more businesses and activities because the people of Contra Costa have diligently followed the health orders restricting our activities for many months,” said Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Chair Candace Andersen. “We remain committed to a safe and careful reopening for our county.”
Contingent upon the county’s current situation, hair salons and barber shops are expected to reopen for business Wed., June 17, per CCHS’ timeline. On Wed., July 1, indoor dining, bars, gyms/fitness centers, hotels and certain indoor entertainment venues are anticipated to follow suit.
According to CCHS, the timeline could change if community health indicators worsen, particularly if the number of new cases or patients hospitalized with COVID-19 rises.
Contra Costa County is the first of the six lower Bay Area counties to receive the variance from the state, per CCHS. For more info re: the County’s COVID-19 response, click here.
