HARRISBURG – Despite Gov. Wolf today finally moving Centre County to the green phase of reopening, the county will remain in yellow at the request of County Commissioners Michael Pipe and Mark Higgins, according to Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman (R-34).
“I am stunned that the Commissioners Pipe and Higgins have chosen to keep our local community shuttered,” Corman. “Instead of focusing on what we can do, Commissioners Pipe and Higgins said ‘we can’t.’
“Instead of saying Centre County residents can and will continue to do a good job of staying safe, social distancing, wearing masks and more, Commissioners Pipe and Higgins said employers cannot reopen their doors.
“They dictated that workers cannot return to their jobs and support their families. They said ‘we can’t’ despite data supporting the county moving to the least restrictive green phase of reopening.”
Under yellow, restaurants and bars are limited to carry-out and delivery only and the following employers and activities will remain closed:
- Indoor recreation;
- Health and wellness facilities and personal care services (such as gyms, spas, hair salons, nail salons and massage therapy providers);
- and all entertainment (such as casinos, theaters).
With a green designation, employers that are closed in yellow can open but have restrictions of 50-percent occupancy; this includes restaurants and indoor recreation like gymnastic studios and gyms.
Organized youth sports also are permitted in the green phase. Additionally, while large gatherings such as concerts and stadiums will be limited, the restriction on all gatherings of more than 25 persons is lifted. People can have gatherings of more than 25 people, if they choose, but must social distance.
“Measures taken to slow the spread of the virus, such as social distancing, school closures, and shelter-in-place orders, have led to greater isolation and loneliness,” Corman said.
“What I am hearing from our friends and neighbors is that they are ready and determined to take on the COVID-19 fight in their communities and throughout their activities and professions. It’s unfortunate that the Commissioners Pipe and Higgins do not feel the same.”