Restaurants, salons, malls, fitness centers, and more are now able to open at 50% capacity in Iowa. Governor Kim Reynolds lifted some COVID-19 regulations on Friday. Washington Chamber of Commerce Director Michelle Redlinger says the past two months businesses and customers have found creative ways to continue to support each other in Washington, “From my perspective, I have just seen so much positivity come through this and creative ways that our customers are supporting businesses, the way that our businesses are meeting the health needs of their clients. And I just think of so many stories and examples of people going above and beyond. And I think that will continue, and I definitely think that’s one of the brighter aspects of our current situation.” Some businesses have started websites, Facebook live shopping events, and curbside pick-up.

Main Street Washington Director Sarah Grunewaldt said some businesses will continue these practices as things move forward, “And I think the other thing that businesses need to keep in mind is that just because you can reopen to 50% capacity, or even 100% capacity doesn’t mean you should. Being measured and being strategic about how you run your numbers, you know some restaurants’ 50% capacity may not make sense for their books. And continuing to do carryout and delivery might be the way to go. And so, strategizing how to do that and what’s best for your business is more important than throwing the doors open.”

Grunewaldt adds that shopping locally, whether that’s online or in person, helps support the local economy, as about 65 to 70 cents of every dollar spent in a local store then recirculates through the community.