Mall of America to reopen stores on June 1 as coronavirus pandemic rages
THE Mall of America in Minnesota is set to reopen stores on June 1 as the coronavirus pandemic continues to pummel the US.
The organization in Minneapolis made the announcement on Thursday — the day after state Governor Tim Walz said retail businesses could get going again from May 18, with restrictions.
The news comes as numerous states including the US epicenter New York, enter the Feds' phased reopening process as the death toll tops 84,000.
"[Walz’s] announcement is promising news, not just for Mall of America, but for our entire retail community," their statement read, according to CBS Minnesota.
“Mall of America is home to more than 175 small business owners in addition to hundreds of national and global brands," it went on.
"We are prepared to open our doors, so they can open theirs giving them the opportunity to begin rebuilding their business.”
The Mall of America said they decided on June 1 to allow the mall to implement ramped up safety measures.
It also provided an opportunity for retailers to train and rehire new staff and prepare their store for customers.
“It is important to know that while Mall of America will reopen on June 1, not all retailers within our building will open immediately," their statement noted.
"We understand it may be longer before some are ready to reopen.
“Reopening a building the size of Mall of America is no small task, but we are confident taking the necessary time to reopen will help us create the safest environment possible.
"We look forward to welcoming back our team members, tenants and guests."
The vibrant shopping facility was shuttered on March 17 amid coronavirus fears.
Eight weeks later, the mall said it has implemented social distancing signage, redirected foot traffic, enhanced cleaning, limited capacity for stores and more.
Like Minnesota, restrictions are relaxing across all the US as lockdown orders are lifted.
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The majority of states have either begun reopening their economies or have plans to do so, however many are failing to meet criteria laid out by President Trump.
Following the announcement of the three phase guidelines, some states have already begun to open beaches, shops, restaurants, movie theaters, gyms, beauty parlors, barber shops and parks.
Only Washington DC, Virginia, New Jersey, Maryland and Oregon remain closed, although the latter has plans to reopen soon.