Bar owners try to stay optimistic with only 25% capacity

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Bars and nightclubs opened back up at 25% capacity in Marion County on Tuesday after being shut down a second time during the pandemic.

Several owners told News 8 they did not feel comfortable sharing their feelings on camera because they were afraid it would make their businesses a target for the city.

The owner of Taps and Dolls, Ryan Greb, said he is trying to stay positive but still isn’t sure 25% is going to cut it for him. Greb also said keeping all of the restrictions straight is half the battle.

“If you talk to the Board of Health, the guidelines from one representative to the other are different each day,” Greb said.

The owner of Stadium Tavern, Rob Strong, said he feels for Greb. He has been able to stay open for most of the pandemic because his business serves food, but he is still struggling.

“It’s gut-wrenching being able to be open but not being open. I couldn’t imagine. Twenty-five percent doesn’t do anything. We went from doing $1,800 days to $500 days, and all the counties opened up around us so everybody flocked to them and we went down to $100 days,” Strong said.

With the current restrictions, bars can only be open until midnight, and some could lose an extra three hours of revenue.

Bar top seating is still off limits, masks must be worn, and no dancing is allowed.