Colonial Williamsburg to reopen on limited basis June 14

Some of its historic sites will open at limited capacities June 14

Published June 5, 2020 by Sydney Lake

The Williamsburg Lodge. Photo courtesy The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation announced Friday that it will open for limited public programming at some of its historic sites on June 14 while the state moves into Phase 2 of Gov. Ralph Northam’s “Forward Virginia” plan.

“We are eager to welcome employees and guests back to Colonial Williamsburg, but reopening our public sites requires that we work together so that we all remain safe,” Colonial Williamsburg Foundation President and CEO Cliff Fleet said in a statement. “Our phased reopening plan is based on state guidelines and is fully supported by our regional partners. With this plan in place, we can move at a measured pace toward our shared goal of a return to normal operations.”

For the more than 700 employees who were placed on administrative leave or furlough in March and April, some will be called back during reopening. Anyone who remains on administrative leave or furlough will continue to receive health insurance coverage and other benefits. Those who are still working can continue to do so at home, but pay reductions for salaried employees will stay in place.

As part of Phase 2, most of Colonial Williamsburg’s programming will be moved outdoors. Doors, faucets and other high-traffic touch points are now touchless. Face coverings are still required inside foundation-owned buildings and guests are encouraged to limit their interaction with foundation staff.

In total, Colonial Williamsburg has nearly 50 historic sites. The following sites will open on June 14, with reduced capacities: