One Year of COVID-19 and Our Recovery is Here

March 12, 2021 12:40 PM
by Lindsay B. Call

Almost one year ago, together, Santa Monicans were forced to halt and alter nearly every part of our bustling lives due to an invisible hazard. Since, the COVID-19 virus has tested us in every possible way, but now, one year later, our bright future and strong economic recovery for Santa Monica is in view. 

With case counts nearing five cases per 100,000 people, Los Angeles County anticipates moving into the State’s Red Tier in the coming days, marking the next stage of reopening. When LA County moves into the red tier, we anticipate increased capacity for some businesses with indoor operations, and some businesses, like movie theaters, may reopen for the first time in almost a year.  

This is exciting progress and as we reopen and COVID-19 case rates improve, it is critical that everyone continues to follow health protocols to slow the spread of COVID-19. By doing this, we can continue to make progress and keep our community healthy and our economy on the path towards recovery.  

One of the biggest reasons we’ve been able to make it to this stage of reopening is that LA County residents are getting their COVID-19 vaccine. Many in our most public-facing roles are now eligible for the vaccine including food staff, mass transit operators, and custodians who service indoor buildings. If your neighbors or friends are eligible for a vaccine, offer your encouragement and any assistance to make them an appointment. To learn more about COVID-19 vaccines, visit VaccinateLACounty.com.  

As opportunities increase to shop, see a movie or dine indoors in Santa Monica, your City team is here for you and we want to make sure the businesses you visit have a safe and clean environment. One way we are working with businesses to help ensure they meet COVID-19 health and safety requirements is by completing the Santa Monica Shine COVID-19 Assurance Program.   

Keep an eye out for the program seal (examples in YouTube video) at the entrance to a business entrance to see if they have completed the program.  

Looking to Saturday, we will officially mark the one-year anniversary of the COVID-19  shutdown in the true Santa Monica way – paving the road to our recovery in a special City Council meeting to set community-wide priorities informed by the input of thousands of residents and guided by our values. Thanks to our residents and business community for working together to manage the ups and downs of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Authored By

Lindsay B. Call
Chief Resilience Officer