Contra Costa County residents may again enjoy outdoor swimming pools, outdoor seating at restaurants and dog parks under a new health officer order released today.
The order, effective 5 p.m. today, also allows for outdoor religious services of up to 100 people, indoor religious services of up to 12 people, use of outdoor picnic and barbecue spaces, and overnight camping for people belonging to the same household.
Because of the progress made in the fight against COVID-19, Contra Costa health officers feel confident opening additional businesses and activities. The State of California has determined that while counties can move slower than the State in reopening, they cannot move more quickly. The openings announced today bring Contra Costa County in alignment with other Bay Area counties taking similar steps.
We have made great progress slowing COVID-19 in our county and I want to offer a heartfelt thank you to all who suffered and sacrificed to follow these health orders throughout this pandemic. I know it has not been easy. But you have helped save lives.
This order follows a modification earlier this week that allowed offices and many retail businesses to reopen and created guidance for small gatherings including people from different households.
According to County Health Officer, Dr. Chris Farnitano, COVID-19 is still circulating in our community, and we need to take precautions to prevent outbreaks. Another way we can keep ourselves and our families safe is to get tested, even if we feel well. You should contact your medical provider to get tested, or you can participate in County and State organized testing by signing up via phone or online. See how to sign up here
www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/get-tested
.
The new order includes guidance for safely conducting the newly permitted activities, including requirements for businesses.
More information about these activities will be available on the County Health website and as FAQ's in the coming days. We wanted to get these businesses and activities reopened as soon as possible, so please have patience as our business owners try to navigate opening up while also making these activities as safe as possible for you and the community.
Details, including the full text of the order, are available at
cchealth.org/coronavirus
.
