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Restaurant and lodging updates, hotels 100 percent

Submitted by tim on

Agency of Commerce & Commerce Development September 18, 2020 Restaurant and Lodging Updates Governor Phil Scott has announced updates to the current restaurant and lodging guidance. Restaurants and bars can now utilize bar seating if patrons are six feet apart and a partition is in place between the patrons and the staff behind the bar. In addition, capacity limits were removed from lodging properties, allowing them to book all of their available rooms. All mandatory safety measures, travel restrictions, quarantine requirements, and the cross state travel map remain in place.

Cross State Travel Map Update

The Cross State Travel Map and data modeling presentation will now be updated each Tuesday. The intent is to give Vermonters and visitors more time to properly plan their weekend travels this fall. The travel map was updated today, September 18th and will be updated again on Tuesday, September 22nd and each Tuesday thereafter.

New Technical Assistance Program Now Available

Governor Phil Scott and ACCD have also announced new resources for businesses navigating the COVID-19 crisis. Free technical assistance is now available through the Small Business Recovery Technical Assistance Programwith support in a variety of areas being provided by the state’s twelve regional development corporations, Champlain College, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, Northern Community Investment Corporation, and the Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund. The program is now live, and businesses can begin accessing resources immediately.

Vermont Arts Council Economic Recovery Grants

ACCD is no longer administering Emergency Economic Recovery Grants to nonprofit arts and cultural organizations. For-profit creative sector businesses are still eligible to apply directly with ACCD.

Starting September 21st, to distribute the remaining funds that were earmarked for cultural nonprofits, the Vermont Arts Council will open two different applications – one for new applicants and one for those who have already received funding. Visit the Vermont Arts Council website for full details on the application process and informational webinars scheduled for next week.

VHFA Mortgage Assistance Program Expanded

The application period for the Vermont Housing Finance Agency’s Mortgage Assistance Program has been expanded. The program will now provide up to six months of grants for past due mortgage or property tax payments for qualified applicants. The program income eligibility requirements were also raised and qualified owners of mobile homes in parks with mortgages can now apply. VHFA encourages applying as soon as possible as funding is limited.

Business Impact

ACCD wants to hear from all Vermont businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Please use the ACCD Business Impact Form to help us continue to assess the full impact as we work toward additional solutions.

Source: Agency of Commerce & Commerce Development September 18, 2020