As many counties across the metropolitan area have already been approved to implement the state health department’s 5-Star State Certification Program, Adams County announced Friday they have applied for approval. 

County officials announced The Maintain & Sustain Adams – 5 Star Certification program application was sent to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, but they do not expect to be approved until February, according to a news release. 

“Many businesses have invested money and time into reopening safely during this pandemic, and we want to reward them for their efforts,” said Board of Commissioners Chair Emma Pinter.

The program is designed to ensure a safe and healthy environment for employees and customers by implementing possible changes to the businesses’ ventilation systems and written health and safety policies. 

CDPHE approves Jefferson County’s 5-Star application

Initially only 100 businesses in Adams County will be eligible for the pilot program, but more businesses will be able to become certified at a later date, officials said. 

Businesses across the state began reopening last month despite being in the CDPHE’s Level Red category on the state’s COVID-19 dial, which prohibits indoor dining. The program allowed businesses to operate at a capacity higher than the state’s dial ordinarily allows.

Arapahoe, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas and Jefferson counties have all been approved and have implemented the measures. 

Denver County submits 5-Star State Certification application

Previously officials from Adams County told The Denver Gazette that they were uncertain if they’d apply for the program.

“We’re not eligible to apply yet because we’re also under a health order from Tri-County Public Health. I don’t know if we will apply once we are eligible, but we’ll make that determination at that point,” said Christa Bruning, director of communications for Adams County in December.

Businesses interested in applying for the program can do so at adamscountycovid19.org