April 30. By Dave Yochum. Mecklenburg County is now aligned with the North Carolina stay at home order, which has been extended until May 8. Jetton Park and other county parks are open to vehicles—and parking—and real estate sales can go back to something approaching normal.

Previously, only empty homes could be shown by real estate agents.

It means that car dealerships, vape shops, craft stores, auto body shops and pet groomers can reopen.

The Memorial Day weekend Coca-Cola 600 race will go on, but without fans in the stadium.

Mecklenburg County’s order was more restrictive than the state’s, which means that some businesses will start the reopening process today.

Jonathan Baptiste was one of the first people in Jetton Park this morning. Parking was open for the first time in three weeks, but he walked from his parents’ home on Meta.

Boat ramps at Ramsey Creek and Blythe Landing are open.

Virus has not peaked

But moving to the next phase of reopening hinges in part on social distancing and getting COVID-19 under control.

Mayor Woody Washam said it is good to have a reopening plan, but with it comes “significant responsibility” for businesses and citizens.

“While this virus has leveled off, it has not peaked out yet,” he explained.

“So, this reopening process must be taken seriously with all behaviors followed as stated in the Governor’s Order,” the mayor said.

Reopening businesses should especially follow social distancing, and well as wearing masks and gloves.

“With everyone’s cooperation we should have a successful reopening plan for our communities and get this economy back to normal,” Washam said.

Here is a list of businesses the county says may reopen:

—Defense and military contractors that develop products, processes, equipment, technology, and related services that serve the Unites States military, national defense and national security interests.

—Electronic retailers that sell or service cell phones, computers, tablets and other communications technology.

—Lawn and garden equipment retailers

—Book stores that sell educational material

—Religious facilities, entities, groups, gatherings, also, services, counseling, pastoral care, and other activities provided by religious organization to the members of their faith community.

—Insurance companies, underwriters, agents, brokers, and related insurance claims and agency services.

—Real Estate services including brokerage, appraisal and title services

—Automobile dealers