The Merced Mall opened Thursday morning for the first time since the COVID pandemic forced the shopping destination to close in March.

And, it looks a lot different.

Mall Changes

Merced Mall employees are required to wear masks and get daily temperature checks.

Sanitation stations greet shoppers at mall entrances. Social distancing markers separate diners in the common eating areas of the mall.

There are signs throughout reminding shoppers and employees of safety precautions recommended by the CDC.

The hours of operation have been cut to 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Saturday. On Sundays, the hours are 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

In addition to reduced hours, the ‘Mall Miles Indoor Walking Program’ is on hold until further notice.

Shopper Guidelines

• Wear protective masks and use hand sanitizer or wipes.
• Maintain a distance of 6 feet from other shoppers.
• No loitering or large groups.
• If a store is busy, please return at a later time.
• Avoid touching your mouth, nose, and eyes with unwashed hands.
• If you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue, discard it immediately and wash or sanitize your hands.
• Thoroughly wash your hands on a frequent basis with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
• Stay home if you have a fever or cold and flu-like symptoms such as a cough, sore throat, runny nose or body aches.

Some stores may require shoppers to wear a mask before entering.