Cuomo: COVID-19 metrics remain encouraging with New York City set for Phase 4

New York City will enter Phase 4 of its coronavirus reopening plan Monday, another sign the virus has retreated across New York State while it surges elsewhere in the country.

Just 1.08% of 46,204 COVID-19 tests in New York State were positive on Saturday, and the number of people hospitalized with the virus — 722 — was the lowest since mid-March, according to figures released by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo's office.

"We're continuing to progress forward through the COVID-19 pandemic in the face of a continued explosion of cases throughout the United States, and that's reflected in today's hospitalizations — the lowest number since March 18 — and rate of positive cases," Cuomo said in a statement.

"During these confining and frustrating times, I know it's tempting to be tired of the many rules and guidelines the state has issued," the governor said, "but I reiterate that this pandemic is far from over, and the incredible compliance and fortitude of New Yorkers are key parts of our ability to fight COVID-19.”

Also on Sunday, Sen. Chuck Schumer announced that New York hospitals hit hard in the pandemic — including 15 on Long Island — will receive $680 million in federal funds.

“They have done a good job but they need help,” Schumer said of the hospitals at a Manhattan news conference.

Schumer (D-N.Y.) said the funding is part of the CARES Act, which President Donald Trump signed into law in March.

New York City will be the last region in the state to enter Phase 4. Film and television production can resume, and low-risk outdoor arts and entertainment venues such as botanical gardens and zoos can also reopen at reduced capacity. The Bronx Zoo, for example, reopens to members on Monday and the general public on Friday.

Indoor dining is still not allowed, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said Friday, and museums and malls will remained closed for the time being.

"It's all about safety. We want to bring people back to work. We want people to get their livelihoods back. We want to bring our city back," de Blasio said at a Friday news conference. "But safety and health first."

The virus remains relatively scarce on Long Island, according to the latest figures released by the state. Less than 1% of coronavirus tests on Long Island on Saturday were positive. Nassau County had 28 new cases on Saturday, while Suffolk had 26. Both recorded one new death from the virus.

Nassau tested 3,006 people Saturday with a positive-test rate of 0.9%, Nassau County Executive Laura Curran said in a statement.

"Let’s keep our guard up and continue to do what we know works: wash hands, socially distance, and wear a mask," she said. " … I urge residents of all ages to use their common sense and think twice before disregarding the very real threat COVID continues to pose to all of us."

With Michael O'Keeffe

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