On Monday, some of the Bay Area’s biggest malls reopened for the first time since March.
Westfield Valley Fair in San Jose and Westfield San Francisco Centre were among the local malls to welcome back customers who haven’t been able to shop in stores due to the coronavirus pandemic and public health orders.
At Valley Fair, customers and employees came across messages reminding them that masks and social distancing are required. Hair sanitizing stations are set up around the mall. The food court is only open for to-go orders. Couches and other seating areas are off limits.
Some stores require a reservation to shop. Westfield launched an app to create a shopping reservation system or virtual queue.
Only about 30% of the stores at the mall reopened Monday. Store hours will be limited to allow time for deep cleaning.
People can expect the same experience at Westfield Oakridge shopping mall in San Jose and the Westfield mall in San Francisco.
Stonestown Galleria in San Francisco also reopened Monday.
LC Ballestreros and her daughter drove from San Leandro to shop at Valley Fair.
"I think it’s really cool," Ballestreros said. "I think it’s awesome to be here. It’s nice to be around people and hang out. Nice to not be at home. Not every store is open, but some are, so it's nice to shop."
