County leaders expressed relief Friday to learn Westmoreland soon will move into the green phase of the state’s coronavirus reopening plan.

Gov. Tom Wolf announced Friday that Westmoreland is one of 16 additional counties in the region, including Allegheny, that will move from the yellow to green phase June 5.

The move will enable restaurants to open for inside dining with limited capacity. Hair salons and barber shops also can reopen, though by appointment only. Gyms, theaters and casinos will be allowed to reopen at 50% capacity. Public gatherings of more than 250 will be prohibited.

“The green phase is something we’ve all been waiting for to get people back to work while keeping everyone safe,” Commissioner Sean Kertes said.

Businesses must follow rules set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Guidance includes wearing masks in public, keeping at least six feet away from others outside of family members and staying home when feeling sick.

Since mid-March, Westmoreland County has recorded 444 coronavirus cases. Just 10 new cases have been reported since May 21. State health officials report 38 coronavirus-related deaths among county residents.

“We need to get back to normal and back to a robust economy in Westmoreland County,” Commissioner Doug Chew said. “Although green isn’t the same as where we were in early March, without any restrictions, at least it’s another step in the right direction. Our county neighbors are ready and begging to return to work, so, hopefully, it won’t be much longer before we have all restrictions lifted.”

Commissioner Gina Cerilli said the time is right for the county to ease restrictions.

“Obviously, our numbers show that we are ready to enter into our new normal and get everyone back to work and open up all businesses,” Cerilli said.

Local business leaders welcomed the move to green.

“We are 100% in favor of the green phase, and we hope the businesses will do well and the economy in Westmoreland County rises sooner rather than later,” said Chad Amond, president of the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce.

National studies found that 25% of small businesses forced to close in response to the coronavirus pandemic will remain shuttered as other facets of local economies reopen, Amond said.

“I’m hoping that’s not the stats here,” he said.

Jessica Hickey, director of the Downtown Greensburg Project, said moving to the green phase will help bars, restaurants and other small businesses.

“It’s definitely welcome. It’s still going to be hard, but it’s better than nothing,” Hickey said.

While the number of coronavirus cases has leveled off in Westmoreland County, officials said that even with a move to the green phase of the governor’s recovery plan, residents should continue to take precautions.

Roland Mertz, the county’s director of public safety, said he supports the governor’s easing of restrictions.

“We just have to remain vigilant, as there is no cure and there is no vaccine,” Mertz said. “Everyone still needs to go with the recommended guidelines, washing hands and wearing masks.”

Public safety officials also are planning for a potential resurgence of the virus later this year. Mertz said his department since mid-March distributed more than 59,000 pieces of personal protection equipment and will work to ensure there is an ample supply of masks, gowns and gloves this fall.

“We need to be prepared so there is no shortage for the next time,” Mertz said.

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