Seattle small businesses are some of the hardest hit by the coronavirus protocols that have been required by state government.

Many closed for months early in the pandemic and now must operate at 25% capacity until further notice. More than 160 Seattle businesses that were downtown have closed permanently, according to the Downtown Seattle Association. Washington Retail is in direct communication with Gov. Jay Inslee’s office to craft a plan to further reopen businesses now that retailers have shown they can operate safely and vaccines are becoming available at a more rapid rate and at more locations.

KING 5 tv recently visited with Mary Greengo, the long-time owner of the Queen Mary Tea room, who has shut off her phone and internet and whose friends have begun a Go Fund Me account to help her stay afloat until safety protocols are relaxed to allow more shoppers into her business.

Watch the interview here.