As many Marshalltown businesses are reaching two months of being closed due to the coronavirus, Friday brings a hopeful sign in them being allowed to open their doors again.

Despite this, precautions are still necessary, and it will take time for life to go back to “normal.”

The Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce is providing resources to its members to ensure a smooth reopening with safety precautions in place.

Lynn Olberding, Chamber President and CEO, has some helpful guidance for businesses.

“We have supplied members with some recommendations as they re-open or remain open to the public,” she said. “This includes providing signage for social distancing, taping the floor for queue lines at cash registers, providing hand sanitizer and continuing to provide alternative shopping hours or options for those most at risk. These are simply recommendations and each business will work on their own re-opening plans.”

Olberding said the Chamber has provided members with some resources including suggestions for protecting employees and customers from health risks and information from the Centers for Disease Control and the Iowa Department of Public Health.

She encourages Marshalltown residents to make the best decisions for themselves and their families.

“People should do what they are comfortable with, heed the advice of professionals from the CDC and IDPH, and continue to support local businesses in the fashion they are able,” Olberding said.

It is still important to take precautions, such as limiting contact with others and washing hands regularly.

Olberding wanted to remind people that they can still support local businesses even if they are continuing to stay at home. People can buy products online or over the phone and purchase gift cards to use at a later date.

As some businesses open, other Marshalltown staples will remain closed for the time being, such as the YMCA. Gov. Kim Reynolds’ proclamation allows for fitness centers and gyms to open only with appointments and one patron at a time, which is not feasible at the Y.

Carol Hibbs, CEO of the Y, hopes it will open soon, but safety is the number one concern.

“We are hopeful to welcome back our members soon, but we must wait until regulations are lifted and we may open in a safe and responsible manner,” she said in a message to members on Wednesday.

Despite the challenges in the coming months as businesses reopen, the community will remain as cohesive as ever.

“Marshalltown has really come together and supported our local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. We want to see that support continue and grow in the weeks and months ahead,” Olberding said.

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Contact Anna Shearer at ashearer@timesrepublican.com.