NEW YORK – If the number of COVID-19 deaths continues to decline and the number of tracers increases, the Hudson Valley could reopen in phase one in the new week, Governor Cuomo said Friday.
With that in mind, construction would be one of those businesses that would be allowed to reopen. Given that, he is allowing construction to start now so that work could begin immediately should he give the nod next week.
Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro said the counties are ready.
“We are looking forward to beginning that careful, incremental phased reopening. We are confident that we are meeting the mission of keeping hospitalizations down and flattening that curve. I am ready to work with our business community and those struggling, not only to protect lives, but to help people get back to living their lives,” he said.
Cuomo also announced that since federal loans for small businesses have been exhausted, he is creating a $100 million state loan program for small businesses with fewer than 20 employees and less than $3 million in annual business.
State Senator Peter Harckham (D, South Salem) applauded the new loan fund. “Small businesses and non-profit-making organizations, many who keep Main Street humming, need a viable safety net when faced with unforeseen and devastating circumstances,” said Harckham.
Businesses interested in receiving a loan should visit: https://esd.ny.gov/economic-recovery-covid-19-loans-small-businesses.
