On April 27, Gov. Greg Abbott announced his plan to gradually reopen the state’s economy, beginning with movie theaters, retailers, restaurants and malls being permitted to reopen May 1 at 25% capacity. Read more about how local businesses and officials are responding to the order below.
Following clarification, Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough reverses stance, says only select businesses to open May 1
After initially interpreting Abbott’s order to mean all businesses in Montgomery County could open May 1, County Judge Mark Keough reversed course when the Texas attorney general’s office released a letter clarifying nonessential businesses such as gyms and salons must remain closed.
Kemah Boardwalk restaurants, retail shops reopen at 25% capacity
Restaurants and retailers at the Kemah Boardwalk reopened May 1 with reduced capacity and enhanced sanitation measures.
The Woodlands Mall to open May 5; several township amenities open with limitations
In The Woodlands, while some shops at Market Street reopened May 1, the mall will not reopen until May 5. Some township recreational facilities also reopened.
Lake Houston-area officials, businesses react to state's May 1 reopening guidelines
Business owners in the Lake Houston area had mixed reactions to the governor’s order as they consider the feasibility of reopening.
Houston Museum of Natural Science-Sugar Land to remain closed as main location plans reopening
While the Houston Museum of Natural Science’s downtown location will reopen May 15, the Sugar Land location will remain closed.
Ready to go out again? Dining rooms, patios open for guests in the Heights, River Oaks and Montrose area starting May 1
Various restaurants began offering dine-in services with restrictions May 1 in the Heights, River Oaks and Montrose.
Dining rooms and patios opening May 1 for sit-down service in Bellaire, Meyerland, West University Place
Certain restaurants in Bellaire, Meyerland and West University Place also reopened their dining rooms May 1.
Lake Conroe-area businesses, restaurants prepare for reopening
In the Lake Conroe area, business owners are weighing financial pressures against the safety of their employees and customers when deciding whether to reopen.
What to expect as the Greater Houston area begins reopening businesses May 1
In an April 30 webinar, Bob Harvey, the president and CEO of the Greater Houston Partnership, discussed Abbott’s plan and outlined safety guidelines for the business community.
Most Houston-area movie theaters do not plan to open May 1 despite Gov. Abbott’s authorization
Across the Houston area, the majority of movie theaters opted not to reopen May 1.
Eva Vigh, Colleen Ferguson, Vanessa Holt, Kelly Schafler, Claire Shoop, Matt Dulin, Emma Whalen, Hunter Marrow, Andy Li, Danica Smithwick and Ben Thompson contributed to this report.
