UPDATE: Officials have released additional details regarding the county’s plan to fully enter Stage One.

Original story below…

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TOWSON, MD—Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski held a press conference on Thursday evening to provide an update on the county’s progress with regard to the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Thursday, Olszewski announced that, effective at 5 p.m. on Friday, May 29, Baltimore County would align with state of Maryland guidelines with regard to Phase One of the Maryland Strong: Roadmap to Recovery.

This means that restaurants may open with outdoor seating, retail establishments may open at 50 percent capacity, and churches and houses of worship may resume holding services at up to 50 percent capacity.  It’s important to note that, earlier this week, Archbishop William Lori announced that the Archdiocese of Baltimore would reopen area churches at up to one-third capacity.

“I came out for a reopening last Wednesday, and am pleased that in nine days we are now aligned with Governor Hogan’s recovery plan,” said Councilman David Marks, whose district includes Perry Hall, Carney, Towson, Kingsville, and a portion of Nottingham. “At the same time, Baltimore County continues to have the resources and flexibility it need to address public health.  A moderate approach balances both needs.”

“This is wonderful news for our local restaurants and churches,” said Parkville Carney Business Association president and NottinghamMD.com founder Chris Montcalmo. “I have been in favor of a cautious, yet more aggressive reopening and it’s wonderful to see the county aligning with the state.”

Harford County has also announced plans to fully enter Phase One of the Roadmap to Recovery.

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UPDATE: Officials have released additional details regarding the county’s plan to fully enter Stage One.