The city of Wichita has announced a four-phase program that will reopen public facilities and city programs after the coronavirus shutdown.

Mayor Brandon Whipple announced the plan during his weekly news conference.  He said phase one is already underway with city employees preparing buildings with signage supplies and safety protocols.   Phase two will begin May 26th and run through June 30th.   He said city hall and other buildings will open for limited access and changes in service deliveries.   He said the first three floors of city hall will be open to allow access to the municipal court, and visitors will be required to wear masks.

Mayor Whipple said the city will be watching the situation, looking for any risks to the health and safety of employees.

Phase three is scheduled to begin July 1st when the city will make a more accurate determination for loosening of restrictions and limitations on city facilities and programs.  Phase four will be a complete reopening of city facilities, but there is no date scheduled.   The mayor said that phase will begin when there is a vaccine or treatment for COVID-19, or there is further direction from the county, state and federal health agencies.

Mayor Whipple said the city’s plan is subject to change as conditions change with the coronavirus.   More information on the plan will be available on the city’s web site at www.wichita.gov