Coronavirus In Pennsylvania: Gov. Tom Wolf To Reopen Businesses Related To Outdoor Activities, Including Golfing, On May 1
HARRISBURG, Pa. (KDKA) - Gov. Tom Wolf announced restrictions on businesses related to some outdoor activities, including golfing, will be lifted on May 1.
The Wolf administration is allowing golf courses, marinas, guided fishing trips and privately owned campgrounds to reopen statewide May 1. They'll be required to follow guidelines for "prioritizing public health and safety."
Campgrounds in state parks will remain closed through May 14.
"Pennsylvanians have remained resilient throughout this COVID-19 crisis, and as we successfully continue to flatten the curve to protect our physical health, it is critical that we also focus on our physical and mental health during these extraordinary times," Gov. Tom Wolf said in a press release.
"As the weather warms and daylight lengthens, enjoying time outdoors is an important way to manage stress. As we start to take measured, limited steps to reopen our commonwealth, reopening these industries will help to rebuild our economy and strengthen our mental health."
Business owners told KDKA their phones have been ringing off the hook since the announcement.
After weeks of being stuck at home, people are ready to get out. Governor Wolf said he made this decision to promote physical and mental health.
"I got the news, probably about 5 people called me within a minute," said Phill Scally Jr., who owns Scally's Golf Center in Moon Township.
While golf courses in neighboring states are thriving, Scally was forced to close in March per Governor Wolf's orders.
"When you look out the window and the sun is shining and no one is there, you are thinking, 'Oh, my God, we are missing all this business and people are screaming to get out of their houses right now,'" Scally said.
Scally plans to reopen on Friday, following the CDC's guidelines.
On the driving range, spaces are already 10 feet apart to allow for social distancing.
Signs will also be up to remind people not to crowd.
"If they have their own equipment I would highly recommend they bring them," Scally said. "We have rental clubs and will be wiping them down before they touch them."
As the forecast calls for a great weekend, Scally said they are expecting a good turnout.
"It couldn't come at a better time," Scally said.
More information on the Coronavirus pandemic:
