JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Starting next week, Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry says he is relaxing outdoor capacity restrictions for all restaurants and retailers as long as businesses continue to practice social distancing.
During a press conference Thursday, Curry said with the relaxing of outdoor restrictions comes an increased burden of responsibility for owners and patrons to maintain safe practices.
He says businesses shouldn't be planning to have large outdoor parties anytime soon.
"We must move forward responsibly...we must get this right," he said. Curry expects more details about the order to be released early next week.
Sheriff Mike Williams was asked about an incident on Cinco de Mayo where a photos surfaced online of a restaurant hosting a large outdoor party, not adhering to social distancing practices.
Williams said JSO has handed a lot of similar incidents but that he's received "cooperation from everyone we've dealt with in those situations."
Additionally, even with relaxed regulations, Curry is urging people to continue to wear masks in public spaces.
"I heavily suggest you wear a mask," Curry said. "I've been wearing a mask... and I encourage others to do the same."
Curry gave details about testing sites in Jacksonville, including the availability of antibody testing.
He says the antibody tests will be given at the Lot J testing site in the near future and will help give the city a better understanding of how many people have been impacted by the virus.
Antibody testing at Lot J will be reserved for first responders and those in the healthcare field before being open to the public.
The mayor also commented on Jacksonville's estimated trajectory towards entering 'Phase 2' of the reopening process saying that the city is getting much closer every day.
"We are under a statewide executive order that has (salons, gyms) closed at this time," he said. "When (the state) moves to open those, we will act and move with them."
Testing Site Updates:
- Starting Friday, the Lem Turner Walmart testing site will open for drive-thru only. Appointments can be made at myquestcovidtest.com for those who want to be tested. Right now, testing is only available for those showing symptoms and for first responders.
- On Saturday, the walkup testing site at Cooper Park will move indoors to Legends Center located at 5130 Soutel Dr, Jacksonville.