ALLEGHENY CO., Pa. — On June 5, businesses across western Pa. will be able to flip their closed signs to open – as Gov. Tom Wolf announced every county in our region except for Beaver will transition to the green phase.
As several local counties got the green light from the governor, Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto delivered a message of caution.
Have questions about the spread of the coronavirus? We have an entire section dedicated to coverage of the outbreak. CLICK HERE for more.
He said this pandemic is still very real, and just because we are moving to the green phase doesn’t mean we should forget the health guidelines.
“We still have to remember the virus is around us, it's here. We have to be safe,” said Peduto.
Nine counties in the Pittsburgh area will turn from yellow to green next Friday.
- 9 local counties to move into green phase next week
- Reopening Pennsylvania: What you can expect when counties move to green phase
- PA CORONAVIRUS MAP: See the number of cases in each county, zip code
- Leaders, businesses react to Gov. Wolf’s announcement: Most of western Pa. going green
That's when hair and nail salons, spas and gyms can safely welcome back clients with precautions – and restaurants can seat customers inside at a distance.
Casinos, theaters and malls will also be able to open at 50% capacity.
Allegheny Count Executive Rich Fitzgerald said some businesses might not choose to go green right out of the gate. Many will take direction from customers and employees who view the virus through their own personal lenses.
Public health leaders are looking ahead, preparing for the fall and winter months when COVID-19 mitigation is vital.
They said the hard work that flattened the curve must continue -- including wearing a mask, social distancing, limiting trips outside and working from home if possible.
This browser does not support the video element.