HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Gov. Kay Ivey reported more than 260,000 people filed for unemployment in the last few weeks due to COVID-19 and social distancing.
Plans to reopen the economy in Alabama are underway, but is it too soon?
Commerce Kitchen General Manager Josh Goosby says he looks forward to full operation.
"We have to do something ... We can't stay closed. Otherwise the economy is going to keep dropping," says Goosby.
Restaurants have been one of the major industries hit financially. Many of them are trying to stay afloat by running curbside service.
"Overhead is still there. We still have to pay the bills," says Goosby.
However, Goosby believes some guidelines, like store hours for the elderly should stay in place.
"We need to take precaution at certain levels, like with the elderly and things like that you know - while we open up early to help them out," he added.
Brikia Moore would like to see businesses like the gym open soon.
"I'm ready - I've been ready!" says Moore.
She works as a personal trainer for additional income and says closed gyms have taken a toll. Moore says she's tried virtual training, but it doesn't work for her or her clients.
"I feel like fitness helps boost the immune system and the fact that I can't train my clients - they're slipping through the cracks. You know, we're eating at home, eating up all of the groceries and you know it can be devastating, and it's devastating to my clients."
The governor will be looking at recommendations as early as this week. The 'Stay at Home' order is expected to expire April 30th.