Long Island enters Phase 4 of reopening

Long Island has now officially entered Phase 4 of the state’s reopening initiative.

Businesses that can now reopen include colleges and universities, media production companies and certain indoor and outdoor arts and entertainment venues.

Museums, historical sites, botanical gardens and aquariums can open, but they’re limited to 25 percent occupancy indoors and 33 percent occupancy outdoors, according to state guidelines.

While it is currently the last phase in the state’s reopening plan, it still won’t be back to business as usual. In addition to mask requirements, reduced occupancy and social distancing, businesses like theaters, gyms and malls still don’t have a target date for reopening.

State and local officials are expected to continue ongoing discussions about those businesses that remain in limbo and when to eventually ease some of the safety restrictions in place.