GRANITE FALLS — Prairie’s Edge Casino announced Friday that it will reopen at noon today after being closed for two months because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The announcement follows Minnesota’s Gov. Tim Walz’s decision on Wednesday to let the stay-at-home order expire and gradually relax state restrictions. The casino had voluntarily closed. While most retail stores and businesses are allowed to open today, bars and restaurants remain closed. Tribal land and their casinos are sovereign nations.

“The decision to reopen has been made with much consideration to health and safety of our valued guests and team members,” the casino’s announcement said. “Please know that we exceed all safety guidelines to reopen, we are looking forward to seeing you.”

The statement said table games, including blackjack and poker, will remain closed. But it said video blackjack and video roulette games would be available. To allow for social distancing, the statement said the casino made a 50% reduction in slot machines.

Food and beverage will be available and the hotel will open as well. The statement did not address how the casino is different from bars and restaurants that are required to remain closed today. But the casino did invite members of the press to meet with Upper Sioux Tribe and casino officials this afternoon.

Friday’s statement also address the casino’s planned safety features to address COVID-19 concerns, stressing following the recommended social distancing guidelines. It also encouraged people to stay home if showing any signs or symptoms of illness. Guests who do enter the casino will have their temperature taken and guests who register a 100.1 reading will not be allowed to enter.

“All team members who work in direct guest-service areas will be wearing masks to protect themselves, our guests and their fellow team members,” the casino said. “Guests are strongly encouraged to bring their own masks and wear them as much as possible while visiting the property. However, masks will be available for guests who need one.”

Some of the mentioned safety features include plexiglass dividers between slot machines as well as limited chairs. The statement said the machines will be cleaned throughout the day, including after each guest is done playing each machine.