Phase Two Reopening Target Moved to June 17

The Lamont administration is moving the second stage of Connecticut’s phased economic reactivation up three days to June 17.

The state initially set June 20 for the second phase of reopening from the coronavirus pandemic.

The state Department of Economic and Community Development released detailed sector guidelines June 6 for those businesses allowed to reopen or expand operations in phase two.

Offices, retailers and malls, and restaurants were allowed to reopen—with restrictions—May 20, with hair salons and barbershops following June 1.

Indoor dining at restaurants will be allowed from June 17, with movie theaters, amusement parks, gyms and fitness centers, libraries, and and some youth sports programs allowed to resume business.

Outdoor arts, entertainment, and events with up to 50 people are also on the target list and museums and zoos can reopen indoor spaces.

As with phase one, all businesses planning on reopening in phase two are required to self certify with the state.

Gov. Ned Lamont cited positive COVID-19 case trends for the move to June 17, adding he wanted to avoid reopening “during a busy Father’s Day weekend.”

“It’s a head start on Father’s Day. It gives them a few extra days to prepare,” he said.

“Our public health professionals are continuing to monitor test results for possible links to large demonstrations, but as long as COVID hospitalizations and infection rates remain low, we will be in a very good position.”