Phase 3 Begins Monday In MA; New Gathering Limits Announced

Phase three of Massachusetts's reopening plan will begin Monday. It will be the final phase before therapeutics or a vaccine is made available, Gov. Charlie Baker said Thursday.

Phase three will have two parts, much like phase two did. While there is no date for when part two will begin, it will be longer than three weeks from July 6.

"This phase will last significantly longer than the other phases," Baker said.

Gyms, movie theaters, museums, cultural centers and historical facilities are among those allowed to reopen Monday. Small, guided tours may resume. All have specific restrictions and guidelines.

Professional sporting events will also be allowed to take place without fans.

Phase three will take effect in Boston Monday, July 13.

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Bars and nightclubs will remain closed until phase four. Some other states that have seen spikes in COVID-19 infections have attributed it to reopening bars too soon.

Beginning Monday, indoor gatherings are limited to eight people per 1,000 square feet but should not include more than 25 people. Gatherings in enclosed outdoor spaces are limited to 25 percent capacity or 100 people.

Baker said commitments to social distancing, wearing masks and washing hands have been key to getting to phase three.

"Massachusetts is effectively bringing the fight to the virus as we've opened," Baker said.

Baker said he understands people will get "creative" in celebrating the Fourth of July with their families.

"I hope people can take a minute this weekend to celebrate and enjoy," he said.

But Baker also asked people continue to remain vigilant.

"Our success is largely in the hands of the people of the commonwealth," Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito said.