LYNN, Mass. — The owner of Rolly’s Tavern on the Square in Lynn is hopeful that the state increasing capacity from 25 percent to 40 percent will make a big difference for his business and others.
Governor Baker announced on Thursday that the restrictions, put in place after Christmas, would be easing up on Monday.
Roland Hayes, owner of Rolly’s in Wyoma Square, said continuing to operate at 25-percent wasn’t sustainable for much longer.
Hayes told Boston 25 News he isn’t sure that he would’ve been able to do it without PPP help.
“25-percent, you can pay your direct costs, but you can’t pay your rent and your utilities,” said Hayes. “It was totally scary for an experienced businessman like myself.”
He’s hoping there aren’t any more setbacks and is excited that he’ll be able to seat more customers inside his establishment in just four days.
“We basically have a 100 seating capacity. Instead of 25, we can have 40,” explained Hayes. “40-percent going into Valentine’s day is huge.”
Meantime, restaurant owners in Boston aren’t celebrating the news just yet.
Businesses in Boston have routinely been subject to more stringent restrictions.
The President of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association said he was told that the city of Boston would follow Governor Baker’s announcement.
That has not yet happened.
“It’s frustrating. I think it’ll be continued difficulty for sure if the restrictions are held on to,” said William Moriarty, Wine and Spirits Director at Rochambeau on Boylston Street. “The difference of 25 and 40 percent might make the difference of rent or paying your staff.”
Boston 25 News checked in with the city of Boston for clarification on whether or not restrictions would be easing.
A city spokesperson would only say they’d keep us posted on any updates before the guidance goes into effect Monday.
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