Caution-first of course, but this week, Governor Cuomo has signed an Executive Order “extending closing times for bars, restaurants, gyms and fitness centers, casinos, billiards halls, as well as other State Liquor Authority-licensed establishments, from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. statewide, effective immediately,” according to the Dutchess Business Notification Network.

Family Entertainment Centers

Beginning March 26, 2021, New York State announced that indoor family entertainment centers can reopen at 25% capacity.

Living indoors with young kids and teenagers with nowhere to go has been very difficult. More difficult, however, is hearing about a family who got COVID-19 and had family members go to the hospital. While these centers may open, businesses will need to show how safe they are being, and not exceed capacity.

Amusement Parks Can Open This Spring

Outdoor amusement parks are allowed to open on April 9, 2021 at the limited capacity of 33%.

Sports Venues Can Open At 10% Capacity

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced on 2/10/2021 that sports and entertainment events in major stadiums and arenas with a capacity of 10,000 or more people can re-open with limited spectators beginning February 23. “Following the model established as part of the successful Buffalo Bills pilot program, venues and events must follow similar guidelines, including Department of Health approval for venues and events, capacity limitations, testing requirements, mandatory face coverings, temperature checks, and assigned, socially distanced seating.”

Venues will have to institute a 10% capacity limit in arenas and stadiums, as well as ensure all staff and spectators receive a negative COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of the event.

According to the Dutchess Business Notification Network: “New York State and Empire State Development are looking to help vendors set up low-cost rapid COVID-19 testing sites for asymptomatic individuals with the idea being this will allow the state to begin the process of opening large gatherings/events. As such, the focus is on spaces near city centers/areas that will attract crowds.”

Location details include: “No or low cost 6-month lease immediately available; Street level store fronts with walk in access; About 750-1500 square feet (no additional charge for larger space). They are, on average, using 1200 sq. ft.” Email Deanna Robertson at drobertson@hvedc.com with questions.

Summer Day Camps Looking Probable To Open

The Dutchess Business Notification Network reports that “the New York Department of Health will release reopening guidance for day and overnight summer camps in the coming weeks. It is recommended that camps begin to develop their procedures and safety plan.”

Safety Measures

According to the Dutchess Business Notification Network: “All facilities must submit their plans to reopen, including the health protocols the facility will implement, to the local health department. Face coverings and social distancing will be required for all customers and staff, and customers will be required to have a health screening with temperature checks prior to entry.”

Additionally, the following guidelines must be followed:

• Contact information must be collected from each party to inform contact tracing, if needed;

• High-touch areas, attractions, and rides must be cleaned and disinfected frequently throughout the day;

• Attractions must close if they cannot ensure distancing and be frequently cleaned/disinfected;

• Sufficient staff must be deployed to enforce compliance with rules, including capacity, distancing, and face coverings;

• Tickets should be sold in advance, and entry/exit and waiting times should be staggered to avoid congestion;

• Indoor areas must meet enhanced air filtration, ventilation, and purification standards; and

• Retail, food services, and recreational activities must abide by all State-issued guidance.