Fifty-eight days into the emergency order issued by Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry, he says some businesses will finally see some relief under the governor's "Phase One" reopening plan which began this week.
The plan includes restaurants being able to offer on-premise dining and the opening of retail stores with capacity and social distancing guidelines in place.
During a Monday press conference, Curry said there are also plans to work with beaches mayors to lift remaining restrictions on the city's beaches.
As of now, there are still restrictions in place that limit activity to walking, running, surfing and exercise only. Curry said cooperation is crucial to allow for gradual easing of beach restrictions.
"The steps we are taking today are the first of many towards reopening Jacksonville," he said.
While gyms and salons remain closed, Curry says he understands these places need to get back to work. He says he voiced these concerns during a weekend held a roundtable with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis who is actively working towards a goal to safely reopen these businesses.
Also during the press conference, the mayor said that the citywide stimulus system kicked off without too much issue on Monday morning. So far, he says 500 people have left their scheduled appointment with $1,000 in relief funds.
However, during the press conference officials noted that security measures have been necessary with some people showing up without appointments and non-residents using old addresses.
Curry stressed the importance of bringing proper documentation to your scheduled appointment which includes at ID, appointment number and pen. He says all available appointments have been booked and the city will look to create more if openings become available.
Curry also reminded people that his work-from-home order is still in effect and is evaluated on a daily basis.
"I appreciate sacrifices Jacksonville community has taken over the past two months," said Curry. "I ask employers to continue working together to find available work from home solutions."
