As many Marshalltown companies are reaching two months of being closed because of the coronavirus, Friday brings a hopeful sign up them being allowed to open their doorways once more.
Regardless of this, precautions are nonetheless needed, and it’ll take time for all times to return to “regular.”
The Marshalltown Space Chamber of Commerce is offering sources to its members to make sure a easy reopening with security precautions in place.
Lynn Olberding, Chamber President and CEO, has some useful steering for companies.
“We’ve got provided members with some suggestions as they re-open or stay open to the general public,” she mentioned. “This consists of offering signage for social distancing, taping the ground for queue traces at money registers, offering hand sanitizer and persevering with to offer different procuring hours or choices for these most in danger. These are merely suggestions and every enterprise will work on their very own re-opening plans.”
Olberding mentioned the Chamber has offered members with some sources together with ideas for safeguarding workers and prospects from well being dangers and knowledge from the Facilities for Illness Management and the Iowa Division of Public Well being.
She encourages Marshalltown residents to make the most effective choices for themselves and their households.
“Folks ought to do what they’re comfy with, heed the recommendation of execs from the CDC and IDPH, and proceed to assist native companies within the style they’re ready,” Olberding mentioned.
It’s nonetheless essential to take precautions, corresponding to limiting contact with others and washing arms frequently.
Olberding needed to remind people who they’ll nonetheless assist native companies even when they’re persevering with to remain at residence. Folks should purchase merchandise on-line or over the cellphone and buy present playing cards to make use of at a later date.
As some companies open, different Marshalltown staples will stay closed in the intervening time, such because the YMCA. Gov. Kim Reynolds’ proclamation permits for health facilities and gymnasiums to open solely with appointments and one patron at a time, which isn’t possible on the Y.
Carol Hibbs, CEO of the Y, hopes it’ll open quickly, however security is the primary concern.
“We’re hopeful to welcome again our members quickly, however we should wait till laws are lifted and we could open in a protected and accountable method,” she mentioned in a message to members on Wednesday.
Regardless of the challenges within the coming months as companies reopen, the group will stay as cohesive as ever.
“Marshalltown has actually come collectively and supported our native companies in the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. We wish to see that assist proceed and develop within the weeks and months forward,” Olberding mentioned.
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Contact Anna Shearer at ashearer@timesrepublican.com.
