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DENVER (KDVR) — Mayor Michael Hancock said the City and County of Denver has been approved for the 5 Star State Certification Program and businesses will be able to apply for reduced restrictions soon.

Department of Public Health and Environment Executive Director Bob McDonald said the metrics need to remain under the state threshold for at least seven days before pre-qualified businesses can move to increased capacity.

Denver is currently in Level Orange on the state COVID-19 dial but businesses with 5 Star approval will be able to operate in Level Yellow restrictions.

McDonald said Denver has approved over 20 pharmacies to receive and administer the COVID-19 vaccine and there will be a map posted on the city website in the next couple of weeks.

Many older Coloradans around the Denver metro area have reached out to FOX31 asking how to make an appointment to get their vaccine. Several are finding it difficult to get answers or anyone that can help them.

Denver Health received about 8,700 Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine doses and 11,500 Moderna doses. Dr. Judy Shlay from Denver Health said over 5,000 healthcare workers have received the vaccine and almost 2,000 have received a second dose. Shlay said over 1,000 existing Denver Health patients over 70 years old have received the vaccine as well.

Hancock said the dates of concern for possible protests are Jan. 16 – 20 and he will be announcing a modified schedule for city employees in preparation around the state Capitol.

The FBI Denver has taken precautions to curtail possible violence and destruction near the Colorado Capitol on and around Inauguration Day, as well.

“We are focused on identifying, investigating, and disrupting individuals that were involved in the siege of the Capitol and/or continue to incite violence and engage in criminal activity here locally. We are working together with our law enforcement partners to continuously share information based on tips submitted by the public. The FBI continues to remain steadfast in our mission to dually and simultaneously protect the American people and uphold the U.S. Constitution,” shared a spokesperson for Denver’s FBI division.