Nebraska entered Phase 3 of re-opening on Monday, which means restaurants have the option to open up 100 percent of seating.
Dozens of restaurants in the Old Market were faced with that decision Monday, and nearly all have decided to expand capacity. Others remained closed or decided to remain at 50 percent capacity.
Jams at 11th and Harney Streets is one of the businesses to completely open. “We’re not exactly sure how to handle the 100 percent capacity when it comes because it’s been a few weeks,” Mindy Venditte, Jams service manager, told 6 News.
The decision, like many made the last few months, was nerve-racking. Their top priority is safety. “Some of our coworkers have some health issues, so they have to think about that, but we’re staying positive and keeping up with extra precautions, that everything will work out just fine,” Venditte says.
With the exception of Hall, Merrick, Dakota and Hamilton Counties, which have moved into Phase 2, the rest of the state began seeing these changes on Monday:
- Fan attendance at sporting events will no longer be limited to household members. Beginning July 1, team contact sports like football and basketball can resume.
- Elective surgeries will be allowed at medical facilities without adherence to previously implemented minimums in regards to bed capacity and personal protective equipment.
- Bar games, including arcade games, darts, and so on, will be allowed. Maximum occupancy for each business will be allowed, but with a limit of eight people per table, an increase from the previous limit of six per table.
- Food may be consumed at bars. Self-serve restaurants and buffets are still prohibited.
- At childcare facilities, capacity limits will now be 15 per room for infants to younger than age 3; 20 per room for 3-year-olds; and 24 per room for 4- and 5-year-olds. Children from kindergarten to grade 12 will be allowed at 30 per room.
- Indoor gatherings may be held at 50% maximum occupancy up to a max of 10,000 people.
- Outdoor gatherings may be held at 75% maximum occupancy, up to a max of 10,000 people.
- Dancing at events is allowed while maintaining social distancing of 6 feet from other groups.
- Gyms, spas and health clubsare limited to 75% occupancy.
- Salons, barbershops, massage therapy and tattoo businessesmay operate at 75% occupancy. Masks must still be worn by both the customer and employees unless masks must be taken off for a moment.
(Photo: 6 News)