Springfield and Greene County leaders are letting some businesses go back to work amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Springfield Mayor Ken McClure says the change takes effect immediately.

“We feel comfortable in taking a half-step forward immediately allowing businesses not previously deemed essential to be able to take orders by telephone, online, or by any other ordering system in which the order is not made in person.  The amendment also allows these businesses to fulfill orders by shipping, delivery, or curbside pickup.  Previously, only those businesses deemed essential were allowed to operate in this manner.”

Greene County Presiding Commissioner Bob Dixon says in the coming weeks they will lighten the restrictions and open the economy in phases.

Springfield and Greene County have also extended their stay at home order through May 3, matching the statewide order.

Today the Greene County Commission and Mayor Ken McClure extended separate, but similar, Stay-At-Home orders until 11:59 p.m., May 3, 2020. Learn more about these amended orders at: https://t.co/SH3DXC3jIc

— Greene County MO (@GreeneCountyMO) April 21, 2020

Springfield-Greene County Health Director Clay Goddard says there are 92 cases of the coronavirus.

There are 38 active cases.

46 people have recovered.

Eight people have died.