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Businesses in Broomfield approved for the 5-star program can operate at Level Yellow

Posted at 5:37 PM, Jan 06, 2021
and last updated 2021-01-06 21:31:02-05

BROOMFIELD, Colo. -- Select restaurants in Broomfield are on the brink of more relief.

"We hope we qualify for that program," said owner of Pho 78, John Trinh.

About 40 restaurants have applied for the 5-star-program with the City and County of Broomfield, which would grant them access to operate under Level Yellow guidelines, instead of Level Orange, where the city currently sits.

For Trinh, getting approved for 5-star status would give his business a boost at a time it’s needed most.

"It means that we have a chance to serve the customer in person, to give them the full experience of eating fresh food right away," said Trinh.

For customers, it’s a chance to enjoy a meal indoors if they’re comfortable.

"This is our third time eating out since March so it’s been few and far between. It’s nice having the option, we really want to think about the safety measures that are put in place as well,"said customer Leslie Gaiser.

RELATED: Orange, red — now purple? What Colorado's updated COVID-19 dial means for your county

Operating at Level Yellow would allow restaurants to offer indoor dining at a 50% capacity, helping the city’s economy and morale.

"The difference between 25% and 50% is they can make a profit at 50%, they can’t at 25%," said Broomfield Mayor Patrick Quinn.

Quinn says about 20 businesses will be selected to operate at Level Yellow starting Monday.

"We’re doing inspections this week; my understanding is we have 23 inspections. Not only do they have to say they’re going to comply, we’re able to get into these businesses and inspect them," said Quinn.

Restaurants not chosen for the 5-star program will continue operating at a 25% indoor capacity.