Governor Ralph Northam announced Monday that he will extend Executive Order Fifty-Three until Friday, May 15.
Northam said he anticipates a three-phase reopening, with restrictions on how businesses, churches and other public spaces ease into each phase. He said he anticipates each phase to last about three weeks.
Northam said while the state has made improvements in flattening the curve, or slowing the rate of new coronavirus infections, Virginia needs to ensure positive trends continue related to testing, hospital capacity and the supply of medical equipment.
Gov. Northam said decisions made by his administration are based on health data.
Thursday, May 7, marks two months since the first positive test in Virginia.
Gov. Northam said he will provide more details and guidance on the phases to start easing restrictions on businesses at his press conference Friday, May 8.
Major General Timothy Williams, the Adjutant General of Virginia, with the Virginia National Guard said soldiers are helping in several communities with testing for COVID-19 and transporting test kits to laboratories.
More on this story from our media partner, ABC 13 - WSET.