Michigan Businesses Reopen As Coronavirus Cases Near 59,000

MICHIGAN — For the first time in months, Michigan bars and restaurants on Monday were legally allowed to let customers dine-in. But your favorite eatery wasn't the only business opening its doors.

As Michigan, which reported 129 new cases of the coronavirus and 17 new deaths Monday, has seen a diminished number of new cases reported in recent weeks, more businesses have been allowed to reopen. That state has reported 58,999 cases of the virus as of Monday, with over 5,673 deaths attributed to the illness.

Other restrictions, such as having to stay home and avoiding gatherings, have also been lifted. Meanwhile, barbershops and other personal care facilities can reopen beginning next week.

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What is open Monday?

Restaurants

Your favorite eatery is open, or at least it can be. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced last week that eateries would be able to open to dine-in customers beginning June 8 as the state relaxed some of its restrictions.

Those same guidelines had already been lifted in parts of northern Michigan, which includes the Upper Peninsula and greater Traverse City area, as those regions were a phase ahead of the rest of the state in the governor's MI Safe Start plan for reopening the state's economy.

Public Swimming Pools

If you want to go for a swim you're in luck: Public outdoor swimming pools were able to reopen Monday in Michigan.

Whitmer's order last week announcing that pools would be able to be used again came after several southeast Michigan communities ruled they would be closing public pools. They quickly reversed those orders.

The difference will be there will likely be fewer swimmers, as public pools will be held to 50 percent capacity immediately upon opening.

Outdoor Playgrounds

Outdoor playgrounds can reopen in Michigan beginning Monday. In Oakland County, some already have.

Most of the counties in which playgrounds are immediately reopening have issued guidelines for how to enjoy them safely. In Oakland County, a list of guidelines were issued, including that those using the playground stay at least six feet apart, and that those enjoying the playground equipment wash their hands frequently.

Everything Else

Other businesses allowed to reopen in Michigan beginning Monday includes day camps for children, libraries and museums and outdoor fitness classes and practices.

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