The Government of the US Virgin Islands has lifted some restrictions on bars, churches, restaurants and nightclubs which were imposed to reduce coronavirus transmissions.
Governor Albert Bryan Jr announced the relaxed restrictions today as the territory’s rate of positivity for the virus had decreased significantly.
“We are slowly getting back to normalcy, but we can’t rush it,”Bryan said.
“Let’s take this next step and see if we can sustain it without compromising the public health. Of course, we need your continued cooperation.”
The relaxed measures are:
- Effective immediately, churches and houses of worship are allowed to accommodate 50 percent of their capacity or a maximum of 100 persons, whichever is less.
- Effective immediately, the requirement for the use of disposable dishes, utensils, napkins and drink containers has been suspended.
- Effective November 9, mass gatherings will increase to no more than 100 persons for indoor and outdoor activities or 50 percent of the capacity.
- Effective November 9, bars that cannot accommodate sit down service will remain closed and all bars and nightclubs in the Territory shall be allowed to open for seated service only. No patrons shall be allowed to congregate standing around the bar counter area. Patrons seated in designated sitting areas may order food, alcohol or both, and those sitting must be adequately spaced according to the Department of Health guidelines.
- Effective November 9, live music and disc jockey entertainment will be allowed in licensed establishments but shall not be permitted after midnight.
Bryan has also implored residents to take an active role in battling the violent crime that pervades the community.
“We have to stand as one people to establish wrong from right and discontinue our silent overlooking of wrong that happens in our community,” Bryan said.
“Whether it’s an illegal horse track, drag racing, prostitution, loitering, gaming houses, an illegal numbers game or trespassing, it is time for us to stand as a community and say, ‘No more.’”
The governor assured that authorities will have a zero tolerance approach to law breaking.