Governor Andrew Cuomo says outdoor dining can begin in upstate regions of New York now in phase two of reopening, beginning June 4.
Eateries in the Capital Region, Central New York, Rochester, Finger Lakes, Mohawk Valley, North Country, the Southern Tier, and Western New York can reopen for outdoor dining subject to safety rules. The outdoor tables must be spaced six feet apart, and all staff must wear face coverings. Customers also have to wear masks or face coverings when not seated.
Cities in upstate New York are facing severe budget crunches due to loss of revenue, including from bars and restaurants over the months-long shutdown due to the coronavirus. The New York State Conference of Mayors First Vice President, Binghamton Mayor Rich David, says the early reopen for outdoor dining is “very encouraging” news, and will help regain some of the economic progress that cities have made in recent years.
“It will certainly have a significant impact,” said David. “The number one contributor to New York state sales tax are bars and restaurants, so it will help the economy help local businesses and help [our] finances as well. And it will get people back to work.”
The state’s restaurant association hailed the announcement. Melissa Fleischut, its president and CEO, said in a statement that they will hold up their end of the bargain by adhering to strict safety standards.
Downstate restaurant owners and their patrons will have to wait a bit longer for the outdoor dining option. The Hudson Valley and Long Island are in phase one of reopening, New York City enters phase one on Monday.
