Local

King County hopes to reopen more businesses during a modified Phase 1 of the state’s plan

KING COUNTY, Wash. — It's been more than 2 months since shoppers have stepped foot inside Clover Toys in Ballard.

“We are in the same boat as everyone. It's rough, really rough,” said co-owner Brittney Geleynse.

Geleynse has transitioned to curbside pick-up and delivery but sales are still only about 30% of where the shop was last year. So she is hoping the state will approve King County's request to enter a modified Phase 1 which would allow retail shops to reopen with 15% of building occupancy. For her shop, that's about three people in at a time and limited to 30 minutes inside.

“We are very excited. A lot of toy shopping involves a little more than browsing online. You want to see what it looks in person,” explained Geleynse.

A modified Phase 1 would also mean restaurants can seat outdoor diners at 50% capacity.

Hair salons could open to 25% capacity and clients would have 30 minutes for a cut.

Gyms can also reopen but they'd have to move outside and limit their training to 5 people at a time.

It's a positive step for gym owner Jimmy McCurry.

“The feeling in my heart and in my head, it was a feeling of hope and a feeling of relief,” McCurry said.

Geleynse hopes this next move happens sooner rather than later. Not just for her business but for everyone else who can enter this new normal.

“Honestly bring a little joy to their life because it's been hard, all the way around,” Geleynse added.

King County will apply to the state to enter a modified Phase 1 on Monday. The county expects a response from the state within a few days.