Breaking News: Mayor Hancock Announces Expiration of Stay-at-Home Order, New Regulations in Place Beginning Sat., May 9 

May 5, 2020

Today, Tuesday, May 5, Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock announced the beginning of a phased reopening for the City and County of Denver. This announcement comes in anticipation of this Friday, May 8th, when Denver’s stay-at-home order is scheduled to expire. Mayor Hancock was joined by public health officials, including Bob McDonald, Denver’s Executive Director of Public Health and Environment, and Dr. Connie Price, Denver Health’s Chief Medical Officer, who collectively emphasized Denver’s commitment to continue to suppress the spread of the virus proactively through additional testing and contact tracing.

Beginning May 6th, it is required that face coverings are worn in public places, including at business and government gatherings, while riding public transportation (including rideshare), and medical facilities. While they are strongly encouraged at all times, masks are not required to be worn in parks or while exercising. Read the full public health order on face coverings here.

In line with Governor Polis’ current statewide order, no gatherings over 10 attendees are permitted to take place through May 26.

The following businesses are permitted to re-open in a limited capacity and under stringent health and safety guidelines, which can be accessed in full here:

  • Personal service businesses such as hair and nail salons, pet groomers, and personal training;
  • Field services such as real estate showings
  • Non-essential retailers, such as apparel and home goods;
  • Non-essential offices and workplaces;
  • Colleges and universities;
  • Health service providers such as chiropractors and dentists.

The following businesses will remain closed until City and public health officials can determine it is safe to do so:

  • Bars and sit-down restaurant service (carry-out and delivery continues to be allowed)
  • Move and live performance theaters, including concert venues and sports arenas
  • Gyms, including yoga and fitness studios
  • Shopping malls (except for those will public entrances and exits to the outside)
  • Outdoor facilities such as playgrounds, swimming pools, and basketball courts
  • Libraries and City recreation centers.

“We’re taking a thoughtful and intentional approach to a phased re-opening of Denver businesses in a manner that limits COVID-19 risks for everyone,” said Mayor Hancock. “This does not mean the threat of COVID-19 has passed. These are just the first steps toward recovery along what will be a long journey. Preserving public health and safety remains our No. 1 priority. With these appropriate guardrails in place, we increase the likelihood of a safe transition – if everyone continues to do their part.”

Mayor Hancock announced additional tests, the implementation of contact tracing and several requirements for the protection of customers and employees to limit the spread of COVID-19 in business settings. Click here to access the City’s complete set of guidelines scheduled to go into effect this Saturday, May 9.

Mayor Hancock also announced his Economic Recovery and Relief Council, chaired by Partnership Board Member Lori Davis of Grant Thornton. The Council’s makeup is representative of myriad industry sectors and business types and sizes, and is charged with continuing to identify resources and opportunities for relief. The Downtown Denver Partnership is committed to working closely with our public sector partners to ensure the downtown business community’s voice is reflected as the phased-reopening of our city continues.

Click here to view Mayor Hancock’s full press conference, originally broadcast on Tuesday, May 5th.