You are reading

Decision on How Long the COVID-19 Shutdown Zones Will Remain in Force Could Come Sunday

(Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office)

Oct. 15, 2020 By Allie Griffin

A decision on how long the COVID-19 shutdown zones will remain in force could come as soon as Sunday, Mayor Bill de Blasio said today.

De Blasio said the COVID-19 positivity rates have improved in the cluster zones from what they were a week ago when nonessential businesses and schools were forced to close.

However, he said it’s still too soon to make a call as to whether the restrictions would last more than two weeks — the minimum time mandated by the state order.

“Today’s results indicate some leveling off, some improvement,” he said during a press briefing. “We are seeing a plateauing now of the test results and that is a very good sign, but [there’s] much much more to do.”

De Blasio said they should have a better idea of the situation by the end of the week — on Sunday.

“We’re not there yet to know the final answer,” he said. “Sunday we will have a good picture of whether we’re in striking range of pulling off the restrictions next week or whether we need more time.”

However, Governor Andrew Cuomo said only the state has the power to make that call.

Parts of Kew Gardens, Briarwood, Kew Gardens Hills, Forest Hills and Rego Park are within one red zone — where the most restrictions are. A second Queens red zone encompasses much of Far Rockaway.

email the author: news@queenspost.com
No comments yet

Leave a Comment
Reply to this Comment

All comments are subject to moderation before being posted.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Recent News

May races in Queens: JFK Airport 5K, Forest Park trail classic and a Queensborough 5K

May. 16, 2025 By Paulina Albarracin

The energy of May is on full display across Queens, with a lineup of local races that invite runners of all levels to hit the pavement and the trails. With mild temperatures and sunny skies setting the stage, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of the spring weather before the summer heat sets in. From the Forest Park 4 Mile Road and Trail Classic to the festive Great Hawaiian Luau 5K at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, these events offer more than just a workout—they foster community spirit and personal growth. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen before lacing up and heading out. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or new to the sport, these May races offer a chance to challenge yourself and connect with others in motion.

Mayor Adams marks one year of ‘Padlock to Protect’ with pizza and progress in Queens

Mayor Eric Adams marked the one-year anniversary of the launch of the city’s “Operation Padlock to Protect” initiative at a pizzeria on the Rego Park and Middle Village border on Wednesday and touted the significant progress in shutting down more than 1,400 illegal smoke shops across the five boroughs and seizing more than $95 million in illegal product since last May.

“The city was fed up. We heard it at every town hall. This time last year, there were thousands of illegal smoke shops plaguing our city with unlicensed cannabis endangering our children,” Adams said. “One year later, we are proud to announce that we have turned the tide. Thanks to the tireless efforts by our city’s law enforcement officers, we’ve padlocked thousands of illegal shops and created safer streets for children and families. But we’re not stopping there.”