What is El Paso’s reopening plan?
Phase 1 – May 1 – Retail stores, malls, restaurants, museums and libraries can reopen 25% capacity. The order was later expanded to include barber shops and salons.
Phase 2 – May 29 – Bars, bowling alleys and zoos can reopen at 25% capacity. Restaurant indoor dining expanded to 50% capacity.
Phase 3 – June 3 – All businesses allowed to operate at 50% capacity.
Is it mandatory to wear a mask in El Paso during COVID-19 pandemic?
Yes, everyone over the age of 2 years is expected to wear a face covering inside commercial settings, office buildings and at indoor/outdoor public spaces where social distancing isn’t feasible. People with medical conditions or disabilities are exempt from this order if mask wearing aggravates their condition.
Are restaurants open in El Paso?
Currently all restaurants are allowed to offer dine-in services at 50% capacity. Restaurants may stay open up to 9 pm. Take out and drive thru can continue after 9 pm. Restaurants are encouraged to use disinfection services to protect their employees and patrons.
However, on October 29, 2020 County Judge Ricardo Samaniego mandated a two-week shutdown of all nonessential businesses to include in-person restaurant dining in El Paso County due to a surge of COVID cases. This mandate is in dispute by the mayor and governor of the state.
Are gyms open in El Paso?
Gyms and fitness facilities are functioning at 50% capacity. They are asked to sanitize the facilities and pay close attention to restroom cleaning services. Gyms and fitness facilities were included in the two week shut down mandated by Judge Samaniego on October 29, 2020.
What businesses and services are open in El Paso, TX?
Retail stores, office buildings, grocery stores, restaurants (carry out only), manufacturing, schools, libraries and parks are open at 50% capacity. These stores are
Nonprofessional indoor sporting events are canceled. Parks are open for use of playground equipment, trails and walking paths only.
The following nonessential businesses were included in the two-week shutdown order mandated by Judge Samaniego on October 29, 2020:
- Tattoo parlors
- Hair salons
- Nail salons
- Gyms
- Massage businesses
- In-person dining
What does El Paso define as “essential business” during COVID?
Essential businesses include:
- Grocery stores, convenience stores, food banks
- Hospitals, urgent care clinics, pharmacies, veterinary offices, senior care facilities
- Firefighters/emergency personnel
- Childcare facilities serving essential workers
- Schools
- Gas stations, auto repair shops
- Banks and financial institutions
- Critical infrastructure (energy, water, waste collection and other governmental services)
- Hardware stores, electricians, plumbers and other service providers
- Transport services for food and goods
- Moving Companies
- Real Estate Services
Are large gatherings allowed in El Paso?
Under the Sixth Local Emergency Directive of October 16, 2020, outdoor gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited with the exception of water parks, swimming pools, amusement parks, museums, zoos and libraries which are allowed to operate at 50% capacity.
How to keep business going during COVID?
Brick and mortar retailers now offer online services with contactless pickup and delivery to make it easier for shoppers to purchase goods. Restaurants offer carryout services with curbside pickup and contactless delivery. Stores have instituted COVID safety measures such as electro static disinfection, wearing masks, installation of Plexiglass barriers, social distance markings and cleansing/disinfecting practices to protect customers and employees.
