TAMPA, Fla. — The State of Florida enters Full Phase One on Monday, which means capacity at restaurants and retail shops is increasing, and gyms are finally getting the green light to re-open.
Starting May 18, most businesses will be allowed to operate at 50% capacity while following social distancing guidelines.
Gym owners were busy getting ready for their big opening day.
“I’m a big believer in physical activity, from a stress level, and that was a big thing, shutting down for us,” said Anthony Gonzalez, the owner of Tigers World Tampa.
Anthony Gonzalez and his team are excited to get back on their feet.
“We welcomed everybody. The more people in the class the more energy there was,” said Gonzalez.
But starting Monday, they will be feeding off the energy of half a class size. Tigers World Tampa since implemented an online booking system, amped up their cleaning procedures, and placed markings on the floor and on chairs inside the gym so that people know where they can and cannot be.
While restaurants were already allowed to open their dining rooms, they are excited to welcome more customers.
The owner of The Avenue Bar and Restaurant in St. Petersburg is preparing for more people.
“We opened up when the 25% occupancy came into effect,” said Stephen Schrutt, the owner of The Avenue.
The Avenue opened their doors with just six employees on staff. In under two weeks, they already brought back another 11.
“It’s been great for us, a lot of support locally,” said Schrutt.
Schrutt is the owner of four restaurants in St. Petersburg and Tampa. So far, The Avenue is the only one he opened so far, but his plan is to get the other three up and running in the next few days.
“We hope the support will be there, and I think if we do a good job on our end, making sure people feel safe, we’ll be a place that they continue to frequent,” said Schrutt.
You can find a list of everything included in Full Phase One by clicking here.
