October 8 marks the day for Connecticut’s re-opening into phase 3, amid the Coronavirus pandemic which forced many graduations to be put on hold or fully canceled and businesses to limit their capacity.

In a press release sent on September 24, Governor Ned Lamont announced the state will continue to take a safe approach to limit the spread of the virus. The re-opening is made possible because Connecticut residents have been collectively fighting against the virus to keep the number of cases low by social distancing and through the use of face masks according to Lamont.

“I believe that we can continue to keep these rates low while also easing some of the restrictions that were enacted earlier this year. I applaud the residents of our state for what they’ve been doing, and urge them to keep it up,” said Lamont.

Businesses such as restaurants, hair salons, barbershops, and libraries are now allowed to welcome 50 to 75 percent of their customers in comparison to the ‘outdoor-only seating’ restriction that took effect on May 20.

Outdoor events such as amphitheaters and outdoor race tracks have been allowed to increase their capacity by another 25 percent, moving from 25 to 50 percent capacity as of October 8.

As the holidays are near, the indoor capacity for gatherings amongst friends and family is now capped at 150 people, a substantial difference from the 25 people cap during phase 2. Places of worship will be allowed up to a 50 percent capacity and require 6-foot spacing.

Bars and nightclubs were not included in phase 3 of reopening however all businesses and venues mentioned above are still required to enforce wearing face-masks and social distancing.