access DETROIT | AUGUST 2020
S
outheast Michigan remains in Phase 4 of the state’s reopening plan with the governor threatening to bump us back a step if we don’t wear the damn masks. Most of us are anxious to get out and about as much as we can, so let’s go over the current need-to know rules of engagement (again). We recommend calling ahead or checking the website of the spot you’re looking to visit for specifics before heading out.
PARKS & REC • Campgrounds, state parks and recreation areas, including overnight lodging, are open.
OUTDOOR POOLS
REOPENED AT 50% CAPACITY
• Suspended during quarantine, the Recreation Passport is now required for entry into state parks, recreation areas, state forest campgrounds and most boating access sites and state trailheads. • Most amenities like bathrooms, picnic areas and concessions are open. • Detroit recreation centers remain closed. • Groups of 100 or less are allowed to gather outdoors with social distancing. • Outdoor pools are allowed to reopen at 50% capacity. Indoor public pools remain closed.
BARS & RESTAURANTS • Restaurants and bars have been allowed to reopen at 50% capacity, with six feet of separation required between groups. • After being allowed to reopen, traditional bars, nightclubs and strip clubs have been ordered to end indoor service again. Brewpubs, distilleries, vineyards and bars with outdoor patios are able to remain open. • Most restaurants will require that you wear a mask any time you’re not actively dining, so while being escorted to your table or heading to the restroom. • Waiting areas are closed. You may be required to wait for your table in your car or outside the eatery. • Self-serve food and drink options like buffets, salad bars and drink stations remain closed.
• Many restaurants have adopted contactless ordering in lieu of traditional menus. You may be asked to scan a QR Code stamped on your table with your phone to be directed to an online menu.
• Libraries and museums have been allowed to reopen. The Detroit Public Library is on Phase 2 of its own reopening plan, allowing for drop box returns and curbside pickups of preordered material at its main branch.
RETAIL & ENTERTAINMENT
• Retail stores have been allowed to reopen at 25% capacity for stores with less than 50,000 square feet of customer space.
• Indoor theaters, cinemas and performance venues remain closed. Drive-in theaters are allowed to open.
• You may be asked to adhere to alternative order systems in lieu of traditional lines at certain retail shops.
Sources: detroitmi.gov/departments/parks-recreation, detroitpubliclibrary.org, michigan.gov BLACdetroit.com • AUGUST 2020 • BLAC 29
