Long Island begins phase 1 of reopening as COVID-19 cases decline

Under phase one, nonessential construction, manufacturing, fishing, farming, and curbside retail can resume.

News 12 Staff

May 27, 2020, 9:40 AM

Updated 1,674 days ago

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It was a big day for Long Island Wednesday -- phase one of reopening the economy began.
Under phase one guidelines, construction, manufacturing and wholesale businesses could open again. Retail stores that were deemed nonessential that sell items like clothing, jewelry and electronics are also able to go to work—with restrictions.
Just as restaurants have been doing since coronavirus first spread to Long Island, retail stores can now do curbside pick-up and allow customers inside to pick up their purchases only. No browsing, no trying on clothing or sampling items is allowed yet.
Florists are included in phase one to reopen in a limited capacity.
Tim's Florist in Massapequa Park has been a fixture on Park Boulevard for over 50 years. In that time, owner Gail Klubnick said they've never dealt with anything like this.
The business had to lay off staff. All future wedding orders were canceled or postponed, and they didn't take orders for their most busy holidays, Mother's Day and Easter.
On Tuesday, they found out they could reopen and immediately began adjusting. They ordered a partition for the counter to keep customers and staff safe. Hand sanitizer and gloves have been put in areas people touch often. Customers have also been asked to set up appointments to encourage social distancing.
They feel lucky to be reopening, but are concerned about their neighbors who have a ways to go before they can reopen too.
"I'm just worried about the Boulevard. Stores that recently opened. It's been rough. It's been a rough time," said Klubnick.
Construction also got the go-ahead to continue Wednesday. Contractors say they are happy to be back on the job and are doing what they can at job sites to maintain social distancing.
"People are wearing masks inside, they are staying apart," says Paolo Pironi, of Pironi Homes. "Smaller crews, so everyone is not too crowded."
If phase one is a success, the barber a few doors down can reopen in two weeks.
County officials have said reopening is going to be a slow process. It's because they want to be as careful as possible as the coronavirus has been unpredictable time. They are encouraging shoppers and business owners to stick to good safety practices.
"Now we need people to come out, safely wear their face covering, respect the social distancing guidelines, but make sure you shop locally," says Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joe Saladino.