'It's about time': Peninsula residents cautiously optimistic as San Mateo County moves to state's orange tier

SAN MATEO, Calif. (KGO) -- San Mateo County is the first bay area county to enter the orange tier of the state's COVID reopening plan. Gyms can now increase the number of people inside from 10% to 25% of their capacity. Bars can serve customers outside. Restaurants can welcome in 50% of their capacity. Indoor entertainment like laser tag, bowling alleys and bounce centers can open to 25% capacity.

"We are really glad we have moved to orange tier. The businesses have suffered a lot. I think with all the data that has come out, it's great that the county opened up so people can get back to their lives and businesses," said Burlingame resident Sandeep Gupta.
[Ads /]
But that doesn't mean he will be rushing in to join other diners inside.

"I probably would not eat indoors yet, as vaccinations proceed," Gupta said.

RELATED: Bay Area breweries, distilleries 'excited' after state announces new rules allowing limited indoor services

As counties continue to open up, some bay area residents are still exercising caution.



"I might go back to the gym. I am vaccinated so I would go to the gym probably but still not indoor dining or bars," said Lauren Wlazelek of Burlingame, who is a healthcare worker.

But those who are ready to move forward are grateful they now have choices about where to eat, drink, workout and hang out.

"I think it's a great thing. It's about time. It's long overdue," said Kent Kockos of Burlingame.

App users, for a better experience: Click here to view the story in a new window
[Ads /]
RELATED STORIES & VIDEOS:

• Map shows which counties can, can't reopen under reopening tiers


• Cheat sheet: What you can and can't do after being fully vaccinated


• How to register for a COVID-19 vaccine in every Bay Area county


• Map shows everywhere you can get a COVID-19 test in the Bay Area


• Interactive map shows what's closed and what's reopening in the San Francisco Bay Area


• Data tracker: Coronavirus cases, deaths, hospitalizations in every Bay Area county


• Third stimulus check calculator: See how much you could get

[Ads /]

• COVID-19 Diaries: Personal stories of Bay Area residents during pandemic


• Get the latest updates on California EDD, stimulus checks, unemployment benefits


• Coronavirus origin: Where did COVID-19 come from?


• What is a COVID-19 genetic, antigen and antibody test?


• What does COVID-19 do to your body and why does it spread so easily?


• Coronavirus Timeline: Tracking major moments of COVID-19 pandemic in San Francisco Bay Area


• Coronavirus Doctor's Note: Dr. Alok Patel gives his insight into COVID-19 pandemic