It’s official: Phase 2 of reopening Massachusetts starts Monday

BOSTON — Governor Charlie Baker announced Saturday that Phase 2 of the state’s reopening process will begin on Monday, June 8th.

“Thanks to your hard work and your sacrifices we’re bringing the fight to the virus,” said Baker, thanking residents and business owners who have been anxiously awaiting a return to normalcy amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Baker administration previously published details of Phase 2, which includes the return of youth sports practices, child care, day camps, warehouses and distribution centers, and higher education courses required for graduating, lodging, routine medical exams, and return of retail sales with restrictions.

Key health metrics and advice from public health officials led the on-time start to phase 2 according to Baker.

The 7-day average of positive coronavirus tests since the start of May is down 82%, the three-day average of hospitalizations fell 55% over the same period, and hospitals operating in “surge” has been down 76%.

“The goal here is as we move thing forward is so we can sustain it,” said Baker.

On Newbury Street, a retail hub, most businesses are shrouded in plywood – securing those damaged and protection others that weren’t from rioters and looters following violent demonstrations earlier in the week.

On one corner, a sign of what’s to come, chairs spread around the patio of The Met Back Bay.

While phase two is set to begin, there is a second part of the phase that will include nail care, massage therapy, tattoo and body art, and personal training.

There is no timetable for when the second portion of the phase will begin, according to the Baker administration.

Each phase takes as little as three weeks but if health data reveals a spike in key metrics, the state would put its reopening in reverse.

Phase 3 could begin as early as June 29th.

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RESOURCES:

- Massachusetts Coronavirus Information

- Boston Coronavirus Information

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