RDRC Announces: Governor Cuomo’s New Cluster Action Initiative
Tuesday, October 6, 2020. Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced a new cluster action initiative to address COVID-19 hot spots that have cropped up in Brooklyn, Queens, and Broome, Orange, and Rockland Counties. While working with the top public health experts, New York State developed a science-based approach to attack these clusters and stop any further spread of the virus, including new rules and restrictions directly targeted to areas with the highest concentration of COVID cases and the surrounding communities. The new rules will be in effect for a minimum of 14 days with enforcement going into effect no later than Friday. Fines for sponsors of mass gatherings are now $15,000.
The Governor’s Initiative is divided into three zones – Red, Orange, and Yellow. Right now, Far Rockaway/Edgemere has been designated as a Red Zone.
Red Zone — Cluster Itself– These rules apply to Far Rockaway/Edgemere businesses, schools, houses of worship and community organizations
- Houses of Worship: 25 percent capacity, 10 people maximum.
- Mass Gatherings: Prohibited.
- Businesses: Only essential businesses open.
- Dining: Takeout only.
- Schools: Closed, remote only.
Orange Zone — Warning Zone
- Houses of Worship: 33 percent capacity, 25 people maximum.
- Mass Gatherings: 10 people maximum, indoor, and outdoor.
- Businesses: Closing high-risk non-essential businesses, such as gyms and personal care.
- Dining: Outdoor dining only, 4 persons maximum per table.
- Schools: Closed, remote only.
Yellow Zone — Precautionary Zone
- Houses of Worship: 50 percent capacity.
- Mass Gatherings: 25 people, maximum, indoor, and outdoor.
- Businesses: Open.
- Dining: Indoor and Outdoor dining, 4 persons maximum per table.
- Schools: Open with mandatory weekly testing of students and teachers/staff for in-person settings.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR DOWNTOWN FAR ROCKAWAY, WAVECREST SHOPPING CENTER, BEACH CHANNEL SHOPPING PLAZA AND ALL BUSINESSES LOCATED IN FAR ROCKAWAY, EDGEMERE (ZIP CODE 11691)
Businesses that are considered essential include: supermarkets, grocery stores, delis/bodegas, restaurants (take-out and limited outdoor seating), medical services, pharmacies, banking institutions/financial centers, and communications (mobile phone), pet stores, wine & spirits/liquor stores.
Businesses that are considered non-essential include: hair salons, nail salons, barber shops, clothing stores, furniture stores, flower shops, party goods stores, recreational facilities.
We strongly recommend that all businesses require:
- All customers be masked when entering and remin masked while on premise.
- Hand sanitizer be made available at entrances, exits and check-out counters.
- Enforce the six-feet rule at check-out lines and do not overcrowd premises if in-store shopping is permitted.
- Consider utilizing on-line ordering/shopping apps.
“In response to the Governor’s Initiatve, RDRC will be providing a special edition of its Rockaways Essential Business Guide, Far Rockaway/Edgemere Edition, assisting Far Rockaway businesses with establishing a digital makeing presence to connect with customers, providing businesses with additional PPP supplies for employees, and preparing applicants for future COVID-19 grant and loan programs” stated Kevin Alexander, President & CEO.
To read Governor Cuomo’s full press release, visit: Governor Cuomo Announces New Cluster Action Initiative
To learn more about how RDRC can assist your business, email ehelpdesk@rdrc.org or contact Victoria Stukes at 718.327.5300 ext. 318.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE