NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — Mayor Bill de Blasio on Friday announced that the city has spent over $200 million to prepare office buildings for workers' return.
From June 2020 to March 2021, New York City spent over $206 million with further resources set to be allocated as needed in order to make necessary adjustments and keep workplaces safe as additional 80,000 city workers prepare to begin to return to the office on Monday, May 3rd, according to the mayor.
"New York City will spare no effort to ensure our public servants return to workplaces that are fully equipped to keep them safe. With nearly 6 million vaccine doses already distributed, and individualized safety plans for every office, now is the perfect time to take the next step in building a recovery for all of us," de Blasio said. "City workers have served their fellow New Yorkers tirelessly throughout this pandemic, and I look forward to welcoming them back with open arms."
De Blasio also added today announced that the Mayoral Restart Taskforce has approved a return to office plans for 65 mayoral offices and agencies in New York City.
The Taskforce worked with different government agencies to ensure city workers return to a workplace that has been thoroughly and exhaustively prepared to welcome them back safely.
"As we've learned, the precautions we take can make a tremendous difference," said Health Commissioner Dr. Dave A. Chokshi. "Creating a workspace that enables staff to distance and remain masked is critical. I also urge every New Yorker – including municipal employees – to get vaccinated. It is the single greatest precaution we can take to protect ourselves and those we love."
Approved plans are in alignment with extensive guidance developed by the Department of Citywide Administrative Services, the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and the Office of Labor Relations. The Taskforce required careful calculation of occupancy based on physical distancing and HVAC-related factors, as well as adherence to rigorous policies mandating face coverings, cleaning, and health screenings.
The mayor also confirmed today that nearly 180,000 city workers have already received their first vaccination dose, and over 146,000 have been fully vaccinated. The City has set up vaccination sites in every borough specifically for City workers.
