Nearly all Ontario businesses and public spaces can reopen just ahead of the weekend.
Premier Doug Ford's announced most of Ontario's health units can enter "Stage 3" of the province's reopening process this Friday, including the local Algoma Public Health, Public Health Sudbury and Districts, Porcupine Health Unit, and Thunder Bay District Health Unit.
Under Stage 3, indoor gathering limits will rise to a maximum of 50 people - with a maximum of 100 for outdoor gatherings - though physical distancing requirements remain in effect.
That includes community events or gatherings, concerts, live shows, festivals, sports and recreational fitness activities, fundraisers, fairs, festivals, open houses, and conferences.
While most businesses and events will be able to reopen, there are some still prohibited, including: amusement and water parks; buffet-style food services; dancing at restaurants and bars; overnight stays at camps for children; private karaoke rooms; prolonged or deliberate contact while playing sports; saunas, steam rooms, bath houses, and oxygen bars; or table games at gaming establishments.
This comes just days after the provincial government extended all COVID-19-related emergency orders until July 22nd, while legislation's been introduced that would allow the government to extend the province's state of emergency declaration from the current July 24th date into next year.