Though reopening efforts have really ramped over the past few months (and even weeks), if you’re wondering when NYC will be fully “back to normal,” we now have an answer…
Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Morning Joe this morning (April 29) that they plan to reopen the city 100% by July 1.
“Our plan is to fully reopen New York City by July 1,” he announced on the morning talk show. “We are ready for stores to open, for businesses to open, offices, theaters, full strength.”
He noted that NYC has had remarkable vaccination rates, with 6.3 million vaccinations given so far in NYC.
Good job, NYC! 95% of New Yorkers getting their second dose on time is good — and 100% would be GREAT. 👏👏👏
Don’t skip your second shot! #NYCVaccineForAllhttps://t.co/zcsk07jrVy
— NYC Mayor's Office (@NYCMayorsOffice) April 28, 2021
“Every single day we are beating back COVID more and more, hospitalizations are down, we are just seeing a better situation every day,” he continued. “We’re ready to take that pathway to a full reopening.”
Though he said the city still has “some work to do,” but says he’s quite confident they will be prepared by July.
As for what exactly “fully” means? Pretty much back to normal — dining will once again be able to function at 100% capacity. Of course, with following the rules of wearing masks indoors, sanitizing and washing hands, etc.
Though he did mention theater, Broadway still seems to have a reopening date closer to September since they have to launch a full production in addition to the safety issues. He did says that perhaps smaller shows may be able to come back earlier in July and August, and expect it be “fully back” in September.
“This is going to be the summer of New York City,” he said.
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