Long Island begins phase one of reopening
New York State on Wednesday began easing restrictions for Long Island businesses after months of uncertainty, marking the first phase in the state’s reopening process.
Some businesses in Suffolk and Nassau counties have been given the go-ahead from Gov. Andrew Cuomo to begin reopening after non-essential businesses were forced to close in March due to the global health crisis.
Construction, manufacturing, and agricultural businesses are allowed to resume operations, while retail businesses are allowed to open for in-store and curbside pickup only. In Huntington Village, businesses are temporarily permitted to use up to three parking spaces in front of an establishment to accommodate curbside orders.
The next phase of reopening will include professional services, administrative support and real estate brokerage, while the pickup-only restrictions for retail businesses will be lifted. Phase three includes reopening of restaurants and food services. Phase four includes arts, entertainment, recreation and education.
The Island’s beaches began opening last weekend with reduced capacity and social distancing rules in place, as well as restrictions to limit access to some town beaches to town residents only.
More information about when businesses on Long Island will be able to reopen and recommended safety guidance for various industries is available at forward.ny.gov.
