Boulder County threatens to return to Level 3 COVID-19 restrictions amid rising cases
Boulder County threatened to roll back openings to Safer at Home Level 3 on Monday after an increase in COVID-19 cases across the state and in the county.
Safer at Home Level 3 would decrease gathering sizes and restrict the number of people who can be in businesses, restaurants and workplaces.
Boulder County’s two-week new case average reached 174.5 per 100,000 residents Monday. Level 3 begins at 175 per 100,000.
The county’s five-day average is 52.6 new cases, higher than any other time except for at the height of the University of Colorado outbreak.
“We are hearing that local health care workers are exhausted,” said Chris Campbell, emergency manager at Boulder County Public Health. “If more people require hospital care, our medical system may not have the staffing to adequately care from them.”
Under Safer at Home Level 3, businesses, restaurants and workplaces would operate at 25% capacity. Indoor sports, gyms and fitness centers would close, along with senior facilities. Remote and hybrid education would be recommended for all ages.
Denver issued a similar warning Monday, saying the city could require another stay-at-home order going beyond Level 3.
Adams and Logan counties are currently the only in Colorado to reach Level 3 restrictions.
“It’s no surprise that more Boulder County residents are testing positive for COVID-19,” said Jeff Zayach, BCPH executive director. “We’re seeing statewide and national surges.”
Zayach said the next week will be critical for the future Boulder County’s cases.
“To be blunt, stay home as much as possible,” Zayach said. “Limit your Halloween activities to just your household. Do not go to any gatherings. … Staying home is the best thing we can do. If you have to go out, please social distance and wear a mask.”
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and BCPH leadership will discuss whether the county will move to a different level. No change would be implemented for at least 14 days after the decision.
Boulder County COVID-19 updates are available at boco.org/covid-19.