Coronavirus metrics may be improving, but Gov. Baker continues to hold off on reopening the state

BOSTON — The health metrics have improved dramatically in the Commonwealth. The seven-day average is now at 1.1%, but with that there is new frustration with Governor Charlie Baker opting to hold the course by keep the reopening on pause. 

A lot of people now say they’re frustrated at stalling the reopening even more.

Jeffrey Lasseter, who owns Jamaica Jeff’s in Belmont, is one of many businesses frustrated his counterparts in neighboring states have fewer rules and the virus numbers are about the same.  

“Nobody is trying to make this the governor’s fault but also as a business, these rules and mandates are making permanent tangible negative changes to our business, you just don’t bounce back,” said Lasseter.

Baker was touring a Belmont bike shop on Tuesday to talk more about this weekend’s tax free holiday. Retailers are also hurting with the tight restrictions on capacity and limited hours. Many businesses are reporting revenues down by 50%.

“There are certain sectors of our economy that are paying an incredibly steep price, painful steep price for Covid-19 and a lot of the guidance and rules we put in place,” Baker said in his briefing.

Baker pointed out some industries are still in a holding pattern, like Logan Airport, with total business down 80-90%.  

“Travel, transportation, leisure and hospitality and entertainment those are the places where this thing is really created some enormous difficulties and challenges for all of us,” said Baker.

He explained they want to wait for the health data after colleges and public schools go online in the coming weeks. Right now, the seven-day average is at 1.1%.

“The hugging, the high fiving, the singing along to the songs is the wrong thing to be doing when you are trying to work your way through a pandemic,” said Baker.

The state says it has been ramping up its communications with colleges to make sure gatherings and parties don’t turn into an issue. 

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