RICHMOND, Va. – Gov. Ralph Northam says Phase 3 of his reopening plan will begin Wednesday, July 1.

Last week, Northam announced details of Phase 3, which relaxes many of the restrictions placed on businesses in Virginia.

Northam said he feels comfortable with the progress that has been made in the state.

The Virginia Department of Health is reporting a total of about 59,000 cases of COVID-19 in the state. The number of deaths reported is 1,645, an increase of 25 from Monday.

Under Phase 3, Virginia will maintain recommendations for social distancing and teleworking, and the requirement that individuals wear face coverings in indoor public settings. The maximum number of people allowed in social gatherings will increase from 50 to 250 people. All businesses should continue to follow physical distancing guidelines, frequently clean and sanitize high contact surfaces, and keep enhanced workplace safety measures in place.