Lane County will move to the “high risk” category on Friday, Feb. 26, dropping from the “extreme risk” level thanks to improvements in COVID-19 case counts. The result of the new classification could provide local businesses – including restaurants – some relief with limited indoor dining again.
As of Feb. 23, there were 68,397 total administered doses, with 32,780 first doses and 17,464 people fully vaccinated. There have been 10,106 total cases and 122 deaths in the county.
In city-by-city cases: Springfield, 3,027 (+63 since last week), Creswell, 261 (+5), Cottage Grove, 333 (+5) and Pleasant Hill, 58 (+1).
According to Oregon Health Authority officials, eating, drinking, and entertainment establishments will close by 11 p.m. and indoor capacity is not to exceed 25% maximum occupancy, or have over 50 people in an establishment at one time. Outdoor dining allows more people, capping out at 75 people.
Eating establishments inside of malls can provide food or drink for off-premises consumption or delivery.
Indoor recreation and fitness facilities – another industry hit hard by pandemic-related closures – must also adhere to the 50-person maximum rule. Indoor contact activities remain prohibited.
Indoor social gatherings are still limited to six people. Officials encouraged homeowners to ensure that ventilation systems operate properly and increase air circulation by opening windows and doors.
