Northam Keeps Covid-19 Restrictions in Place

AP Richmond – In a press briefing on Tuesday, Gov. Northam recounted recent COVID-19 data from different regions around the Commonwealth.

In the eastern region, which includes the Hampton Roads area, Northam reported that the region’s caseload is starting to trend downward and that cases are averaging around 214 per day, which is better than what the area was averaging in July. 

Additionally, percent positivity in this area decreased from 12% to 9%.

“I commend those cities and we have been working closely with them. I understand from a business perspective the importance of Labor Day but we have come too far to go back,” he said.

Starting on July 31, Northam enacted an executive and public health emergency order over the Hampton Roads region, which impacted bars and restaurants. Cases in this area were soaring over other parts of the state.

Northam’s decision to not change restrictions in the state comes a day after Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer sent him a letter requesting him to lift and alter some of those localized restrictions. Dyer cited the fact that cases are dwindling in the area.

Virginia Beach Restaurant Association executive director Stacey Shiflet said Northam’s decision will be discouraging for many restaurant owners.

“There will be a lot of frustration,” Shfilet said.

Shiflet was pushing for full restaurant capacity and a midnight cutoff on alcohol sales.

“To have some sort of feeling that we’re moving forward, that we’re not just staying, this is how it’s going to be,” she said.

About the Author

Wayne Creed

Administrator

View All Posts