Buffalo, NY (WBEN) New York State Lt. Governor, Kathy Hochul appeared on WBEN's Hardline program Sunday and discussed what a potential reopening in Western New York would look like. Hochul noted that Western New York had some forewarning after cases started appearing in New York City and were able to start social distancing, wearing masks, working from home, etc. have kept the caseload somewhat under control.
Hochul who has been tabbed by Governor Andrew Cuomo to lead the Western New York Public Health and Reopening Initiative, said that certain areas of the economy will reopen after a 14-day period of decline in cases. After that, the focus of Phase One will include hospitals, especially when it comes to performing elective surgeries and performing them safely so that patients are comfortable and confident, "It's important for public health but it's also important for the economy there's so many jobs that hinging on our public heath institutions." Hochul also noted that major manufacturing and outdoor construction would also be looked at if workplace safety is maintained.