Buffalo, NY (WBEN) - As COVID hospitalization numbers continue to decline in Western New York, the region remains on track to begin Phase 3 of reopening next week.
Barring any major setbacks, that means that restaurants may begin to bring people back inside, with restrictions, starting Tuesday.
"The numbers are trending phenomenally well," said Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul. "I can't say with certainty that there won't be a change in numbers, but we are on track to hit Phase 3."
Phase 3 reopening also allows nail salons, piercing, and tattoo parlors to resume business. What about other sectors that don't have an assigned phase yet?
Last week, surprise announcements allowed outdoor dining at restaurants and churches to hold services with 25% capacity. Should other businesses be prepared for a sudden ability to resume?
"The Governor reserves the right to do that," Hochul said without further elaborating on which industries may be first in line to get the 'green light.'
The Lt. Governor did say that community pools and playgrounds will likely not open until later in the reopening process.
Recent widespread protests will likely play a factor in reopening one way or another.
