OCEAN CITY, Md - On Wednesday, Governor Larry Hogan announced more eased restrictions for businesses in the state. On Friday, June 12th at 5:00 p.m. outdoor attractions including mini golf, amusement rides, and go-karting can re-open with appropriate health and safety protocols.
Many within the tourism industry are elated by the news as the summer season gets underway. Places like Baja Amusements, who have been eager to celebrate their 40th anniversary season say the green light for outdoor amusements to reopen comes at the perfect time. “We’ve been closed since October, so we really needed to get things going so we can expand our business, get summer going", said Valerie Kramer, General Manager of Baja Amusements.
Kramer explained that in the three month's Baja has been gearing up for a hopeful reopen thoughtful consideration was taken regarding how reopening would be done as safely as possible. Procedures include frequent wiping down of surfaces, additional hand sanitizing stations, and appropriate spacing of staff to allow for social distancing.
"We’ve been working diligently behind the scenes to make sure that our park can open safe for customers and staff," said Kramer.
Evolving guidelines for restaurants are also included in the order. Beginning on Friday evening, restaurants will be allowed to offer dine-in service to customers at 50% capacity. Restaurants will also have to follow health and safety guidelines in accordance with CDC, FDA, the National Restaurant Association, an d Maryland Department of Health directives.
"It's better than zero, I can tell you that," said John Fager, owner of Ocean City restaurants Fager's Island and Bad Monkey. Fager noted that even at 50% capacity it could still be a challenge to successfully operate a restaurant. He is confident, however, that this will be a step in a positive direction.
"We're ready. We've been ready, and we're looking forward to tomorrow night to welcome guests," he said.
