Spectrum of Physical Distancing
We have a long haul ahead of us. The COVID-19 crisis has led to unprecedented shutdowns around the world. While some places, including our own state of Texas, are starting to reopen (for example, by permitting limited restaurant and retail openings), others remain under strict “Shelter in Place” orders.
We can’t predict the future. But we can predict that distancing will be with us, in some form or another, for a while—perhaps until a vaccine is developed and widely distributed. We can also predict that it will come in different levels of intensity at different places. It will vary from person to person. Some must maintain increased social distancing because they are especially vulnerable due to age or health conditions - or have regular contact with people who are. Others will simply feel uncomfortable being around others.
At the same time, people are experiencing an intensifying need to socialize and be in public. Humans are a social species, and we are hungry for connections through this extended isolation. It is true that we need a plan to reopen the economy, as safely as possible. But it is also true that we need to gradually reopen our social connections, and offer opportunities for people to be safe, and feel safe, around other people.
RIDING WITH TRAINING WHEELS
While our society has given substantial thought to the logistics of opening stores and restaurants, there are several areas which are getting less focus. Example include:
Public engagement
Public spaces
Special events
This leads to two major points:
Planning must be even more contingent than usual. We must prepare for a variety of scenarios, including either the relaxation or tightening of distancing regulations
We must take extra steps to conscientiously include all populations in our planning. Just as we would be mindful of ensuring with that disabilities can participate in our society, we must work to make special accomodations for those who need to—or wish to—engage in stricter distancing.
Given this context, our firm is placing our work within a Spectrum of Distancing, which is essentially a physical distancing spectrum. The overarching idea is that everyone should be able to participate in public engagement, special events, and the overall civic life of the community. Currently, we are using the Phased Federal Recommendations from the Opening up America Report to create the framework we are using with current clients.
Where possible, our plans will err on the side of caution. For example, even where guidelines permit indoor gatherings, we will plan for outdoor gatherings where feasible. The objective is not to push the limits of each regulation, but to ensure maximal public comfort.
LEVELS OF THE CURRENT SPECTRUM
DS-1. Consistent with strict “Shelter in Place” orders - No congregations of any size are permitted unless essential. At this level, while traditional public assemblies are impossible, it may be feasible to have virtual gatherings, public art projects, or even automobile-oriented gatherings such as “pop-up drive in” movie theaters. It may also be possible to creatively include people in events.
DS-2. Intermediate Loosening - Consistent with May 1, 2020 State of Texas orders - Use of indoor retail and restaurants are limited to 25-50% capacity. Use of masks are strongly encouraged. Strict distancing should be incorporated into any events.
DS-3. “Phase One” orders - gatherings of more than 10 people are discouraged, especially if strong distancing is infeasible. Common areas in workplaces are to be shut down unless designed for distancing.
DS-4. Consistent with “Phase Two” orders - gathering of more than 50 people are discouraged, unless precautionary measures are observed
DS-5. Consistent with “Phase Three” orders - in general, there are few restrictions on behavior, although conscientiousness is encouraged.
All planning will label an activity along the established spectrum (1-5). Where possible, there will be alternative plans based upon a determination of where to plan the spectrum.
EXAMPLE - PLANNED MULTIPLE GALLERY EVENT
Note: in all of these scenarios, recommended best practices would be as welcoming as possible to people who wish to remain at “lower” ends of the spectrum. For example, the galleries and City may collaborate to have outdoor public art which can be seen by people who may wish to remain in their cars or at a longer distance. Interactive versions of the event may be shared online. It will be crucial to work closely with the most vulnerable populations to develop inclusion strategies. Additionally, we would recommend extra precautions, such as taking temperatures and requiring visitors to use hand sanitizers
Scenario 1
The City may assess each venue to establish a threshold for six-foot social distancing, up to a maximum of ten visitors. DS-2
Scenario 2
Galleries may be limited to multiple venues in groups of less than 10, or 50% of the galleries’ potential capacity. DS-3
Scenario 3
Venues may have a maximum of 50 permitted visitors. DS-4
As this crisis continues, we can anticipate that people will have intensified needs to socialize and connect with other people. Cities will have an obligation to do what they can to help ensure this is done as responsibly as possible. We can plan events in advance—but all events for the foreseeable future must be planned with multiple scenarios in mind.