Nashville begins Phase Three of reopening today; what you need to know

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Nashville continues to rebound as Davidson County moves into Phase Three of its reopening on Thursday.

The Metro Public Health Department introduced Order No. 12 for this next phase of reopening.

As part of this next phase, bars and restaurants can now welcome up to 100 patrons per floor, plus 100 more outside. Restaurants can seat up to eight people per table. Both restaurants and bars must continue to close their dine-in service at 11 p.m.

"We're ready," said Dr. Michael Caldwell, director of the Metro Public Health Department. "I think we've learned a lot in the last six months."

Caldwell said the city will continue to close Broadway to vehicles between Fourth and Fifth Avenue this weekend.

Additionally, large events can include up to 500 people or 30% of the venue's capacity with an approved safety plan from MPHD. For more information on how to apply for a large event, click here.

Transpotainment vehicles can resume operation with a maximum of 15 people or 50% capacity. Dance floors must remain closed for now.

While things may look more normal, health officials say when it comes to making decisions, be sure to always weigh your options and choose to be safe.

"If you have a choice between indoor and outdoor, outdoor is safer. The choice between mask or no mask, or mask being enforced, a mask is safer. Social distancing of course, that's safer. And alcohol that’s number four. When you add alcohol to those other three elements, it could really, not could, it does increase the risk of spread of COVID," Caldwell said.

Davidson County will also continue to require masks and social distancing.