Just one day after the launch of phase 1.5 of Governor Laura Kelly’s Ad Astra recovery plan, the governor announced the next phase of the plan is set to begin much sooner than many were anticipating.
Governor Kelly says the state’s proactive approach in response to the pandemic, specifically an emphasis on social distancing, has “driven positive trends on the metrics we’re watching” leading to conditions being conducive for the phase two transition.
During phase two a mass gathering restriction of 15 people or less will be in place. Additionally, all businesses and activities slated for reopening in phase two will be allowed to reopen with the exception of bars, nightclubs and swimming pools.
Leisure spaces such as arcades, movie theatres, trampoline parks, museums and bowling alleys will also be permitted to reopen as will state-owned casinos, as long as they comply with KDHE guidelines. Organized sports tournaments and practices can also begin on Friday but must follow guidelines and social distancing requirements set out by the Kansas Recreation and Park Association.
Large entertainment venues with a capacity of 2,000 or more, fairs, festivals, parades and summer camps that are not state-licensed child care programs will remain closed through phase two. If the current trends remain positive the governor anticipates phase three of the Ad Astra plan beginning on Monday, Jun. 8.
Lyon County Public Health Officer Renee Hively spoke with KVOE News following the Governor’s conference and says the county will likely fall in line with phase two as they did with phase 1.5. However; Hively says the timing of the new phase does concern her somewhat with the new phase rolling out at the start of memorial day weekend.
Hively says even though the new phase will lift several restrictions, it is imperative residents remember we are still in the middle of a global pandemic.
Separately Tuesday, Governor Kelly also announced the establishment of the state’s Strengthening People And Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) task force. The task force will be responsible for getting “Kansas back to work” and “our economy humming once again.”
The task force is a bi-partisan committee consisting of representatives of all sectors of the economy according to Governor Kelly.
Governor Kelly is scheduled to hold her next news briefing at 2 pm on Thursday. You can tune into the conference on KVOE 1400 am, 96.9 fm and KVOE.com.
