- Steve Bittenbender | The Center Square contributor/May 12
(The Center Square) – The gradual reopening of New York hit another milestone Wednesday as Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the state’s beaches and pools would be allowed to open on Memorial Day with social distancing required.
Making the announcement during an appearance in Buffalo, Cuomo told reporters it’s time to “get on with life” and enjoy the summer.
“Our goal is by the 4th of July to go to 100 percent capacity,” he said. “All beaches, all pools. If the numbers keep going the way they’re going, we’re going to be able to do that. So, we would actually be able to have a normal summer.
Cuomo said later during questioning that the July 4 goal was a “leap of faith,” noting that recent COVID-19 variants, including the one in India, could cause a change in plans.
But it’s not something he’s anticipating.
“Who knows what could happen in the next six weeks?” the governor added. “But I don’t think you do the public a service, suggesting a goal that might not happen.”
In addition, Buffalo’s Sahlen Field, which is hosting the Toronto Blue Jays baseball games again this season, will have similar policies in place as Yankee Stadium and Citi Field, Cuomo announced.
That means the ballpark will have sections where those inoculated can sit in a full section and the unvaccinated will sit in sections with social distancing enforced.
With the move, the available capacity will jump from 24 percent to 35 percent, or just less than 6,000 per game. The available seats will be divided in half for those vaccinated and those who have not received a shot.
Those not vaccinated will need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test.
Those wanting to sit in the vaccinated sections will need to show proof they’ve received their doses. Children ineligible to get immunized will be allowed to sit in the section with a vaccinated adult.
Cuomo said removing social distancing guidelines for vaccinated adults creates a better atmosphere because people want to congregate at games, especially with friends and family.
The governor also defended the policy saying it’s neither discriminatory nor does it create a “class system” between people.
“Classes suggests a connotation of wealth or access or privilege,” he said. “It’s none of those. It’s free. You don’t want to get a vaccine. That’s your business, but I don’t want to sit next to you. That’s my business.”
More news from the Roosevelt Island Daily
- Queens Public-Safety Incidents and July 4th Events Ripple Across Roosevelt IslandQueens public-safety incidents this week echoed across Roosevelt Island, with emergency responses, community events, and July 4th celebrations shaping the city’s rhythm.
- Queens Crime Headlines and Community Responses: Roosevelt Island’s ConnectionsQueens crime headlines and community responses have shaped recent conversations from subway stories to neighborhood events. Here’s how Roosevelt Islanders are affected and how the borough is responding.
- How Queens News Stories Affect Life on Roosevelt IslandHow Queens news stories affect life on Roosevelt Island, from public safety incidents and housing shifts to education events, offering insight into our connected communities.
- Roosevelt Island summer moments: Community, events, and the beat of the seasonExperience Roosevelt Island summer moments as neighbors gather, city events unfold, and community rhythms keep the season steady. Discover how our island balances celebrations and everyday traditions.
- Queens Neighborhood News and Community Updates from Across the RiverStay informed with the latest Queens neighborhood news and community updates from across the river, including public safety, events, and how neighboring stories shape our daily life.
Before the Door Closed
The May 14 RIOC board meeting began with public concern over the steam plant and ended with two votes that revealed more than any report could. Some meetings announce themselves by what is said. This one announced itself by what the room permitted to move and what it stopped before it could breathe.
1 COMMENTS