Mayor Hancock Announced Tighter Restrictions During News Conference

Denver will have new COVID-19 restrictions in the coming days, according to Mayor Michael Hancock.

On Tuesday, November 17, Mayor Hancock joined Governor Jared Polis and other lawmakers in a news conference to update the public on the state's response to the coronavirus.

One of the biggest updates was the addition of a new red "severe risk" level to the state's COVID-19 dial, which will require tighter restrictions.

These new restrictions will limit restaurants to takeout, delivery, and outdoor seating, and gyms will operate at 10 percent capacity.

The restrictions will also mandate bars and restaurants hold last calls at 8:00 PM, according to Denverite.

"We're celebrating the good news of a vaccine but we aren't there yet," said Mayor Hancock. "We have to buckle down and do what we need to do so ultimately, once again, in very short order, we'll be able to do what we want to."

During the new conference, journalists wondered aloud why create a new risk level instead of temporarily shutting down.

"While some companies and businesses have found a way to come back, some have not," Hancock told Denverite. "And we know that for even those that came back, another stay-at-home order could potentially be the death knell for them."

Governor Polis said ten to 15 counties are expected to move to the new severe risk level but couldn't give names of specific counties yet.

However, some counties have recently announced their move to the new level.

Arapahoe County will be at level red on Friday, November 20 at 5:00 PM according to a tweet from Sheridan Mayor Tara Beiter-Fluhr.

Jefferson County's health department announced the county will be at level red on Friday, as well.

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