Arkansas has become the next state to start the process of reopening pools and aquatic facilities after coronavirus-related closures.
Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson (Rep.) announced last week that pools and waterparks could start to reopen on May 22, according to U.S. News & World Report. Pools will still have to stay limited to 50% capacity, and will be required to keep six feet of distance between patrons. The U.S. News & World Report story also says that “no entry will be allowed for anyone with a fever, symptoms of the virus or who has had contact with a positive patient.”
Arkansas was one of the few states that did not issue an official stay-at-home order during the pandemic. The state remains just under 4,000 total cases of COVID-19, according to the CDC, which lists 3984 cases and 91 total deaths in Arkansas.
The state’s reopening will also allow beaches to reopen and restaurants to return to sit-down service. Arkansas has approved up to $92 million in federal relief funds to help businesses safely reopen – buying masks or other protective gear to be able to comply with the continued safety restrictions as they reopen.
Yesterday, we reported on Wyoming’s reopening of gyms and pools in phase 1 of its return from coronavirus restrictions. Other states allowing pools to reopen in some capacity include Alaska (allowing pools to reopen at 50% capacity), Texas (25% capacity) and Florida (where some localities have allowed private pools to reopen).
