Atlanta-Area Malls Begin To Reopen After Virus Restrictions Eased

Lenox Square Mall is shown after it was reopened Monday, May 4, 2020, in Atlanta.

John Bazemore / Associated Press

Updated Monday at 3:03 p.m.

Things were still far from normal as some malls reopened Monday in Georgia: Parking spaces were plentiful, many stores remained shuttered and reminders of the coronavirus outbreak were everywhere.

The reopening of some malls is the latest development as restrictions meant to stem the spread of the coronavirus in Georgia have been loosening in recent weeks. Gov. Brian Kemp allowed a statewide shelter-at-home order to expire last week, having already opened considerable loopholes late last month by allowing businesses including barbershops, nail salons, gyms and bowling alleys to reopen, as well as letting restaurants resume limited dine-in service.