Long Island is preparing to move into the second phase of reopening Wednesday, and some restaurants are scrambling to build outdoor dining space to be ready for it.

Family and friends of Riverhead's Digger's Ale and Eats are diving into a DIY project -- building outdoor seating that it did not have before. Gov. Andrew Cuomo recently allowed for outdoor dining spaces to be part of the second phase of reopening.

Long Island officials extended some help ahead of the reopening, saying they would fast-track new permits for outdoor eating areas.

 

Outdoor dining will come with its rules though -- tables must be 6 feet apart, all staff must wear masks and patrons are required to wear face coverings when not seated.

Paper menus, disposable dinnerware and contactless payment are also being used.

Prime in Huntington is one of the more fortunate restaurants on Long Island, because it has plenty of outdoor seating ready to go.

"We have to be creative and make it as positive an experience as possible, while being able to serve as many people as possible," says Sheila Haile.

Vineyards are also allowed to open with the same rules.

"It's going to be new for all of us, so we have to be patient with everyone and everyone has to be patient with us," says Lisa Giachetti, of Del Vino Vineyards. "We're just testing the waters, dipping our toes in."

Those who News 12 spoke with say it is important to remain flexible, although there is frustration and financial concern over not being able to fully open.