Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam said he’ll present new guidelines next week for the state’s eventual reopening, adding progress has been made in boosting testing and obtaining medical supplies amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Northam said at a news conference Friday that he plans to outline the state’s next steps towards reopening its economy on Monday.
The governor has issued executive orders shutting down activity in the state to try to slow the spread of the coronavirus. That includes an order closing some nonessential businesses through May 8.
Republicans have been pushing Northam, a Democrat, to open sooner, like some other Southern states have done.
In a letter sent to Northam last week, Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer asked for beaches to be opened in Phase One of Northam's "Forward Virginia Blueprint," saying Virginia Beach's 28 miles of beachfront help create one of the top economic engines for Virginia Beach and the Commonwealth.
Northam previously said during Phase One, some businesses can re-open with strict safety restrictions, continued social distancing, continued teleworking and face coverings recommended in public.
"When I decide to go into Phase One, I can ensure Virginians we're going to do it in a safe manner," Northam said at his Friday news conference.
