SALEM, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) – On Monday, Governor Charlie Baker announced that the state would reopen fully on May 29th. The news is welcome announcement for tourism-related businesses that have heavy traffic in the summer.

Tourism is to Salem what auto racing is to Indianapolis, a large part of the city’s economy and reputation.

This part of Salem was missing during most of the coronavirus pandemic, and now business owners say the state will reopen in time for the summer season.

Chris Barry, the owner of Silver Moon Comics and Collectibles, said the reopening was welcome news.

“I think it’s great, it’s going to be great for business, a lot of people hurt so it’s going to help,” said Barry.

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He added that he was a little concerned that people come from all over the place and may not be vaccinated.

“We have to obey the governor’s rules, so there will be no more masks from May 29th, I believe, and we will adhere to that policy ourselves,” said Barry.

He said he would wear a mask a little longer himself until he was completely comfortable.

Rob Fitz, the owner of the Magic Parlor also in Salem, agreed with Barry and is happy that the pandemic restrictions are being lifted.

He said he thinks summer business is booming this year and he is already seeing increased demand.

“Because people are so tired of being pent up in their homes, they want to do something fun and they want to get funny things, and that’s what our business is about,” said Fitz.

Carl Stevens from WBZ NewsRadio (@ carlwbz) Reports: