Walz OKs reopening of pools with some restrictions
Pools are permitted to reopen for lap swim, lessons and organized sports beginning Jan. 4, according to a new executive order signed by Gov. Tim Walz Wednesday.
The order stipulates that while pools can reopen, they must follow guidelines outlined by the Minnesota Department of Health, which includes that pool areas cannot exceed 25% of normal occupancy, and must not exceed 100 people.
"We are over one month into a dial back period on certain social gatherings, sports activities, and places of public accommodation that were instituted to combat an overwhelming statewide surge of COVID-19 cases," the executive order reads.
"Many athletes are eager to return to organized sports activities ... This Executive Order reopens pools for a narrow range of activities in compliance with industry guidance."
Other restrictions being loosened on Jan. 4 includes allowing the resumption of youth sports practices.
The ban on dine-in service for bars and restaurants continues till Jan. 11, however.
