BOSTON — Workers returned to their offices in cities outside of Boston this past Monday, but this coming Monday people in the city can do it too, if they follow certain steps.
“Going back to work brings risk,” said Mayor Marty Walsh as he announced a series of workplace-specific safety standards organized around four distinct categories. “It covers social distancing, hygiene, staffing, operations, cleaning, and disinfection.”
Walsh also announced a series of changes to city streets to be phased in over the next several months to help with the reopening.
“We all share the consensus that worker safety must be the priority and any setbacks we suffer will be much more costly so we need to get it right the first time," said Walsh.
In the next two weeks, the Boston Transportation Department will make improvements that include street space allocated for expanded bus stops, new bike lanes, and outdoor restaurant seating.
“As of this morning, 264 establishments in Boston have expressed interest in seating on sidewalks or parking lanes and we are currently reviewing all of the requests," said Walsh. “Ensuring the safety and health of all residents is our first priority in Boston. These innovative streets programs focus on what residents need: safe, reliable transportation if they must travel in Boston, access to fresh air and open spaces, and building social and physical distancing into everyday life. As we continue to carefully plan for reopening in Boston, we will continue our work to create streets and transportation that work for all.”
But one question still unanswered for restaurant owners is when they’ll have their specific guidelines for reopening.
“We’re working with the state right now waiting for the state to finalize the guidelines,” said Walsh. “We’re expecting them to be probably within the next 24 hours."
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