LOUISVILLE, Ky. — It has been more than two months since Governor Andy Beshear (D) closed non-essential businesses because of the coronavirus pandemic. That category included retail businesses.

Retail businesses are making the finishing touches to prepare, train, and make changes if they plan to open their doors on May 20.

“I was extremely excited to hear about the opening date. My whole team here is excited,” said Garwood Linton, the owner of Red Tree in Louisville.

The state has laid out many requirements for the new ‘Healthy at Work’ step. Just like restaurants, retail businesses can only operate at 33 percent capacity. Shoppers and employees are expected to maintain six feet distance and stores are encouraged to modify traffic patterns inside. They’ll also need to create a system for people waiting outside. In places where six feet of distance aren’t possible stores are encouraged to create barriers between employees and customers.

“As far as the retail stores go, I think we are all pretty excited to get things going and to see our customers again and to meet the new ones we have acquired over social media,” said Linton.

In addition to all of this, basic hygiene still applies. People need to wear masks, wash their hands frequently, and sanitize areas or items that have been touched. Stores have been instructed to post the new guidelines outside of the stores.

Linton isn’t sure what the next few weeks will bring but he does know he can make his store as safe as possible.

“I don’t have my crystal ball, I am wondering what the next couple of weeks will be,” said Linton. “Is it going to be busy and people are going to come out and shop or will it be people who are still timid to go out.”

Stores are also encouraged to continue offering sales online and over the phone, even if they choose to reopen. Linton hopes that Kentuckians choose to support local businesses when they are able.

“It keeps the economy going,” said Linton. “It keeps the local, state, and U.S. economies going.”