Governor Gavin Newsom has announced that based on the state’s progress in meeting metrics tied to indicators, the state can begin to move into Stage 2 of modifying the stay at home order this Friday, May 8, with guidelines to be released Thursday, May 7. Some examples of businesses that can open with modifications include bookstores, clothing stores, florists and sporting goods stores. The Pacific Grove Golf Links saw a limited reopening May 4.

The announcement for Friday does not include offices, seated dining at restaurants, shopping malls or schools. As the Governor noted last week, the state is working with school districts and the California education community to determine how best and safely to reopen schools. That continues to be the case – this announcement does not move up this timeline.

Monterey County is one of those which will allow some limited reopening. “I recently revised our County Shelter in Place Order, lifting restrictions on certain industries and activities,” explains Dr. Edward Moreno, Monterey County Health Officer. “I will be reviewing the Governor’s recommendations and conferring with regional health officers to determine the best approach. The addition of community testing and state assistance in contact tracing efforts are important new resources towards implementation of Phase 2 changes.”

Two more community testing sites are now open, one in Greenfield and one in Salinas, effective this morning, May 5 at 8:00 AM. They will prioritize first responders and healthcare providers, with planning under way for other frontline and essential workers before the service is available to the geeral public. Health insurance will be billed for service and the State of Calfornia will cover the cost for uninsured individuals.