Putnam County Coronavirus: Cases Rise, Golf Course Open

PUTNAM COUNTY, NY — The Putnam County Golf Course, which was closed on April 11 to comply with Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Executive Order on non-essential businesses during the new coronavirus pandemic, reopened as state officials relaxed their rules about golf courses and marinas.

As of Monday, Putnam County health officials said cumulatively 831 residents are confirmed to have been infected with the virus in the past month. There are 27 people with severe cases of COVID-19 currently at Putnam Hospital Center.

Statewide, hospitalizations continued to decline as New York moves past the apex of the outbreak.

Golfers may return to the links with additional public safety precautions in place, state officials announced Sunday.

"This has been a confusing few weeks, but we are glad that golf can resume with significant safety measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19," Putnam County Executive MaryEllen Odell said in her announcement about the opening. "Golf is one of the few recreational activities where it’s easy to maintain social distancing, and being outdoors in nature is great for our mental health."

Under the new rules, no golf carts will be allowed at the Putnam County Golf Course and golfers must walk, she said. The food vendors, driving range and pro shop are closed to the public.

Golfers must prepay for reservations online, no walk-ons are permitted. Items that golfers would touch – rakes, flags, benches, etc. – have been removed from the course. Social distancing rules will be strictly enforced.

The change in policy couldn’t have come soon enough for Angelo Prestamo, a first responder from Mahopac whom Odell quoted in her news release.

"I am very happy to hear that the Putnam County Golf Course is open for business,” Prestamo said. "I will be out there soon walking the course and enjoying the exercise. I appreciate all the precautions that are in place."

The new guidance issued by the Empire State Development Corp., the economic development arm of the state, still prohibits golf course employees from working, except for grounds keeping and security purposes, but allows people to play golf as long as there is no gathering.

Visit the Putnam County Golf Course website for more.

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