NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Nashville will revert to a modified Phase Two of its reopening process on Friday, July 3rd as COVID-19 cases continue to skyrocket. Metro reported more than 600 new cases on Thursday, which brings the one-week total to more than 2,000 in the city alone.
Today's case count is the highest single day increase in Metro Nashville. The state has seen increases as well, and is on pace to its worst week since the pandemic began.
No exact timeline was given except for that Phase two will last "for at least a few weeks," according to Mayor John Cooper.
Mayor Cooper made the announcement Thursday morning during his weekly COVID-19 update.
This Phase two is modified slightly from the first time the city entered Phase two. Restaurants and bars are being reverted back to Phase one guidelines, according to the mayor. They will remain open but have to operate dine-in service at half capacity, down from 3/4 capacity currently allowed.
However, bars, which did reopen at half capacity when the city moved to phase three, must now close for at least the next 14 days.
Metro parks and facilities also reopened in phase three, but will remain open as contact tracing hasn't shows those areas to be a source of transmission, according to the Mayor.
Retail and commercial businesses can still operate at 75% capacity, and high touch businesses like nail/hair salons and gyms can remain open at 50% capacity.
Nashville entered Phase 3 on June 22nd, less than two weeks ago. A full list of the restrictions are available below.
Beginning Friday, July 3, Nashville will revert to a modified version of Phase 2. Moving forward, bars must close for a minimum of 14 days, restaurants, gyms and high-touch businesses may open at 50% capacity, retail stores at 75%, and gatherings will be limited to 25 people. pic.twitter.com/bpBfxdfpOs
— Mayor John Cooper (@JohnCooper4Nash) July 2, 2020
“By observing our public health orders, maintaining a safe social distance from one another, and wearing a face covering whenever possible, we can limit the spread of the disease and help protect each other," Mayor Cooper said.
The changes will also have a big impact on the 4th of July holiday. "It is clear that adding any public health risk is inappropriate for Nashville at this time. So, we’ve directed the Nashville Convention and Visitors Corporation to cancel its fireworks display on Saturday evening," the Mayor also announced during Thursday's presser.
NewsChannel 5 will air a one-hour special from 9 to 10 p.m. showcasing local artists and previous years’ fireworks displays.
The Metro Public Health Department has issued an order requiring facial coverings/masks to be worn in Nashville. Beginning on Friday, those who violate that order "shall be subject to civil and criminal penalties, including punishment as a Class C Misdemeanor.”
Read more about Metro’s mask order here.
What is the rebound?
As Middle Tennessee works to rebound from the impact of the Coronavirus, we want to help. Whether it's getting back to work, making ends meet during this uncertain time, or managing the pressure, we're committed to finding solution. In addition, we want to tell your stories of hope, inspiration, and creativity as Middle Tennessee starts to rebound.
Find more in the sections below
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Safely Back to School
How schools are changing, and what you can do to help your child get the most from their education, in-person or virtual -
Making Ends Meet
Find help on topics from rent to food to new belt-tightening techniques -
Managing the Pressure
Feeling isolated or frustrated? Learn ways to connect with people virtually, get counseling or manage your stress. -
Doing What’s Right
Keep track of the way people are spending your tax dollars and treating your community. -
State of Education
Find ways to cope with the new normal around schools and celebrate students’ success in the age of Coronavirus. -
We're Open Y'all
Support local businesses doing their best to stay open and serve their customers during Covid.
