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.

I’d like to know when the police are going to begin enforcing these laws? I’ve recently seen a lot of…
Driving out of town on stone road there are 2 large farms. This is just wasted land. What Cape Charles…
Throughout a national career she has championed equity and inclusion and pursued leadership that is empowering and collaborative. Hilary Harp…
Funk him too.
Hear, Hear! Let the loser Libs suck on that! If you oppose our president it just proves your a commie!!!!