Several Fort Worth bars plan to open May 1 regardless of state and local restrictions that may still be in place at that time, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported. The list of bars, in the Stockyards district, includes Thirsty Armadillo, Stampede Saloon, Pearl’s Dance Hall and the Basement Bar, which said in a Facebook post that it had “played the game long enough.”
Currently, the establishments can only provide to-go and curbside service. Gov. Greg Abbott said he will announce new guidance for businesses by Monday, but it’s unclear whether the state will allow in-person dining at restaurants and bars. Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley said Tuesday that the county could be as much as four weeks away from reducing its restrictions — which can cost violators a $1,000 fine and up to 180 days in jail.
The Basement Bar will limit capacity to 25-50 people and try to keep 6 feet of distance between patrons, according to a spokesperson. The bar is also considering taking customers’ temperatures and giving out face masks at the door, as well as installing ultraviolet lights — a measure that goes against the World Health Organization’s recommendations.
Article by Naomi Andu, texastribune.org