Moving Into Phase 4, Putnam Eager To Fully Reopen

PUTNAM COUNTY, NY — The region continues to slowly reopen its economy as new coronavirus cases continue to be reported.

Museums, exhibitions, historical sites and low-risk entertainment venues are now back in business in Putnam County as the Mid-Hudson region entered Phase 4 of the state’s reopening plan on Tuesday.

To the disappointment of many, the reopening did not as expected include gyms, indoor fitness centers, movie theaters and malls to reopen as part of Phase 4.

“We feel the pain of those small business owners, and we are disappointed with the delay,” said Kathleen Abels, president of the Putnam County Economic Development Corporation. “Now, at least, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. Barring a change, the governor’s Executive Order gives gyms, indoor fitness centers, movie theaters and malls a projected reopening date of August 6.”

On the plus side, social gatherings of up to 50 people will be allowed as will low-risk youth sports including baseball, softball, gymnastics, field hockey, cross country and track, with no more than two spectators.

“We are thrilled to have social gatherings, kids’ sports and our Main Street businesses almost fully back again,” Putnam County Executive MaryEllen Odell said. “Under the guidance of our Department of Health, we have proceeded with caution throughout this pandemic and our vigilance has paid off. We can now shop Putnam and patronize the businesses that belong to our friends and neighbors, while also maintaining the health and safety of our communities.”

The same cannot be said for much of the rest of the country, as 38 states are seeing large increases in infection rates, Putnam officials said. A travel advisory has now been expanded to 19 states where more than 10 percent of the population is testing positive for the new coronavirus, with travelers from Delaware, Kansas and Oklahoma added to the list of those from which travelers must quarantine for 14 days when they come to New York State.

Putnam County reported 43 new cases of new coronavirus between June 26 and July 4. According to the New York State Health Department, the county's positivity rate was 1.4 percent as of Tuesday.

For the latest information, check the county’s website at putnamcountyny.gov and the Putnam County Economic Development Corporation’s website at putnamedc.org.

For help determining whether or not your business is eligible to reopen, use the state’s reopen lookup tool.

NY FORWARD BUSINESS REOPEN LOOKUP TOOL