Arlington Enters Phase 3 of Reopening

Arlington County, along with the entire Commonwealth of Virginia, is transitioning to Phase 3 of the Forward Virginia plan on Wednesday, July 1.

In Phase 3, Arlington will maintain a Safer at Home strategy with continued recommendations for social distancing and teleworking, and the requirement that individuals wear face coverings in indoor public settings. All businesses should continue to follow physical distancing guidelines, frequently clean and sanitize high contact surfaces and keep enhanced workplace safety measures in place.

As part of a cautious approach to entering Phase 3, Governor Northam on Tuesday announced that bar seating will remain prohibited in restaurants to reduce the likelihood of patrons gathering in bar areas without observing social distancing guidelines. The Governor added he is prepared to implement tighter restrictions if needed.

Because Arlington is an urban, high-density area — and because there is still community spread of the virus — the County is going to similarly move forward with caution in the hopes of continuing to stop the spread of COVID-19 and ensure the safety and well-being of the entire community.

Arlington will continue to open government facilities gradually to ensure adequate space for social distancing and follow public health guidelines.

Phase 3 looks like this:

  • Safer at Home, especially if you are vulnerable

  • Continued social distancing and teleworking

  • Face coverings required in indoor public spaces

  • Expanded business operations

  • No social gatherings of more than 250 people

SAFER AT HOME: Phase 3 Guidelines | MÁS SEGURO EN CASA: Fase 3 Pautas

Playgrounds and Outdoor Restrooms Now Open, Select Fitness Rooms to Open July 10

Continuing its gradual reopening, in according with public health and safety guidelines, Arlington’s Department of Parks and Recreation reopened playgrounds and outdoor restrooms, including playgrounds located at Arlington Public Schools, effective Friday, June 26. Additionally, athletic field and court lighting returned to regular schedules.

Park users must continue to social distance and comply with the appropriate usage guidelines. Learn more on the Reopening Arlington Parks FAQ page.

Free Programs in the Parks

Starting Wednesday, July 8, the community is invited to join Parks and Recreation and have fun in our parks. DPR has created a calendar of 171 FREE programs for all ages, from cornhole to Tai Chi. All participants must register, based on the Governor’s guidelines.

If you aren’t comfortable venturing out, check out DPR’s virtual programming:

Holds Pickup Continue to be Available at Central Library

All holds placed before the pandemic are available for pickup at the Central Library Auditorium, Monday through Thursday (12:00 – 7:00 p.m.) and Friday through Sunday (12:00 – 5:00 p.m.). All Library locations are accepting returns in the book returns (all branches are otherwise closed). Additionally, some basic Library account services are now being offered: Sign up for a library card; renew library cards; update temporary library cards; and update mailing address. FAQ

Highlights of the Governor’s Forward Virginia Phase 3 – Effective July 1

  • The maximum number of individuals allowed in social gatherings will increase from 50 to 250 people

  • Restaurant and beverage establishments are required to maintain six feet of distance between tables

  • Fitness centers may open indoor areas at 75 percent occupancy

  • Recreation and entertainment venues at may operate at 50 percent occupancy, or a maximum of 1,000 persons

  • Swimming pools may expand operations to free swim in addition to indoor and outdoor exercise, diving, and swim instruction, up to 75 percent occupancy

Visit Forward Virginia for more information and answers to frequently asked questions. View the slides from Governor Northam’s June 18 presentation.

Resources for COVID-19 Related Information