© 2024
Virginia's Public Radio
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

What Business Owners are Saying as Richmond Enters Phase 2

Mallory Noe-Payne
/
RADIOIQ

About a month ago RADIOIQ brought you the voices of several small business owners in the Richmond-area who were concerned about re-opening. Now we check back in as the city enters Phase Two. 

 

Shop-owner Sarah Mizer says the Brookland Park area is still quieter than normal. 

“But the lights are on. People are inside. People are smiling at you as they walk by,” Mizer said Thursday. “It does feel a little bit less sleepy than (a month ago).” 

Mizer re-opened the doors to her gallery and craft shop two days ago.  She’s asking people to wear gloves before touching anything, and she’s no longer doing in-store events. She feels confident she can keep things clean and safe. 

“There haven’t been more than four people in the space total since I re-opened, and so we’re going to try to keep it that way. It feels very manageable,” she said.” 

Barber Willie Hilliard just started seeing clients again this week. He still has concerns about people’s health. 

“I mean we have five signs in the windows and each one says ‘Masks are required’ and I can guarantee you that over half of them are not wearing masks,” Hilliard said. He has masks on hand to give customers who need them. 

Much of the state is already in Phase 2. The looser restrictions allow gyms to reopen, restaurants to seat people inside, and gatherings of up to 50 people.

 

You can find a full list of Phase Two Restrictions and Business Guidance here.

Mallory Noe-Payne is a Radio IQ reporter based in Richmond.
Related Content