ROANOKE, Va. – In the first week of Phase One of the state’s reopening plan, Roanoke City 911 dispatchers received about a dozen calls from people concerned about coronavirus guidelines not being followed. Police in both Roanoke County and Roanoke say they do not want the public to call them to report COVID-19 violations. Even the governor has said it’s up to the Virginia Department of Health to enforce the guidelines. “We follow the police department’s protocol,” said Roanoke 911 operations manager Beth Stephens. You can call 855-949-8378 to report coronavirus concerns and complaints to the Virginia Department of Health.

Ralph Northam just announced that Virginia will will indeed enter Phase One on Friday. This was the plan, but the governor had previously stated if conditions changed, he would push back that date. While most of Virginia moves into Phase One, Northern Virginia will be able to remain in Phase Zero until May 29, despite the rest of the state moving into Phase One. As of Wednesday, there are 26,746 coronavirus cases in Virginia, according to the Virginia Department of Health. [Where are Virginia’s coronavirus cases?

Ralph Northam detailed what Phase One of reopening will look like in Virginia. Right now, Virginia will enter Phase One on May 15, unless current trends change, according to the governor. Also, the 10-person limit on gatherings will also remain in effect in Phase One. Places of WorshipCurrently, they are limited to drive-in services and a 10-person limit. In Phase One, takeout and delivery will continue; however, outdoor seating will be allowed open at 50% capacitySchoolsCurrently, schools are closed.