SALT LAKE CITY — Two popular Utah shopping malls are re-opening this week.
Fashion Place Mall in Murray opened Tuesday and City Creek Center in Downtown Salt Lake City will open Wednesday.
This is the first full week Utah’s COVID-19 risk level is "orange" instead of “red” allowing more businesses to begin reopening
With safety at the forefront, mall leaders hope customers will come grab a bite to eat or do some shopping.
“It’s a good thing," said John Terry, who lives in Salt Lake City, said as he was walking around Downtown Salt Lake City. "We should have that. Life’s got to get back to normal."
Not everyone is ready to start shopping again, however. While wearing her mask, Salt Lake City resident Linda Hale said she is being cautious.
“Depending on my need, I will shop," she said. "But if there is no need I’m not just going to shop to shop."
A spokesperson for Fashion Place Mall sent FOX13 News a statement outlining the mall’s “new normal.”
It reads in part:
"New measures have been implemented to help ensure the health and safety for all who enter the mall, including hand-sanitizing stations, touch-free interactions, frequent and intense cleanings and social distancing directions. We are working diligently to provide a safe, clean environment where people feel comfortable shopping, dining and enjoying their time."
Things will also look different at City Creek Center.
Much of the outdoor seating has been removed to allow for social distancing. While the food court will be open, the seating has gone from about 1200 seats to 300, City Creek Center General Manager, Linda Wardell, said.
“It is very important that we have safety as our primary goal for welcoming guests back into the center,” she said.
There will be intensive and constant cleaning.
“We are using a high-grade disinfectant that is made for times like pandemics,” Wardell said.
While stores slowly begin to reopen, some spots will remain closed including the splash pad and children's play area.
Before you head out to a store, you should check to ensure it’s open.
