Phase 3 Reopening Set for October 8

If all goes well over the next two weeks, limits on the size of gatherings in many venues will increase on October 8.

But for the time being, bars and nightclubs will remain closed.

Governor Ned Lamont announced a shift into most of his Phase 3 reopening plan in a press conference this evening. The planned relaxed restrictions, he said, are due to "Connecticut residents' collective actions to fight the spread of Covid-19."

At the same time, he urged residents to continue keeping infection rates low by adhering to public health guidelines.

In all cases, Covid-19 safety requirements—masks and social distancing—will continue to apply.

Business changes

Maximum capacity will increase from 50 percent to 75 percent capacity indoors for restaurants, personal services, hair salons, barber shops, and libraries.

Large outdoor event venues such as amphitheaters and race tracks will increase from 25 percent to 50 percent capacity.

Indoor performing arts venues will be able to open at 50 percent capacity.

Social, recreational

Limits on indoor private social and recreational gatherings in commercial establishments increase to 50 percent capacity, capped at 100 people. The 25-person limit at private residences still applies.

Outdoors, the limit on social and recreational gatherings increases to 150 people.

Graduations

Indoor graduations, currently not permitted, will be allowed up to 50 percent capacity, but no more than 200 people.

There will be no limit on the number of people at an outdoor graduation, but the maximum capacity will be 50 percent of the available space, including an allowance for six feet of distance.

Religious gatherings

The size of indoor religious gatherings will double, up to 50 percent capacity, capped at 200 people.

Outdoors, there will be no limit on the number of people at a religious gathering, but the maximum capacity will be 50 percent of the available space, including an allowance for six feet of distance.