Reopen News: NYC enters Phase 4 reopening with some changes

NEW YORK CITY (WABC) -- New York City moved into Phase 4 of the reopening process Monday, as the Big Apple continues to emerge from the coronavirus pandemic, though some changes are in effect.

Similar to Phase 3 eliminating indoor dining two weeks ago, Phase 4 includes some scale backs as well.

All four zoos -- the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, and Prospect Park Zoo -- will be open to guests starting on Friday, July 24, though indoor exhibits will not be re-opening at this time.

Diana Rocco says that malls and movie theaters will not reopen in NYC's Phase 4.

From Monday through Thursday, the zoos will be open to Wildlife Conservation Society members only.

"Every day has kind of been the same," Bronx Zoo member Holly Cuzzone said. "So this is like a really exciting day because I'm doing something that I normally do."

One-third of the normal crowds will be allowed at the zoos, and social distancing signs are up as a reminder for people to keep distance from each other.

Masks are required for both staff and guests, and there are plenty of sanitizing stations.

"I like that the customer service people are at a distance with microphones and speakers so you can hear them when they are talking to you," Bronx Zoo member Michael Reyes said. "No shoutin,g anything like that."

Liberty Island also reopened with some new rules, as did the Empire State Building observatory.

Professional sports are back, but there are no fans in the stands to watch.

The reopening of the NY Aquarium has been postponed pending further guidance from the state, and museums, movie theaters and malls have to wait.

Courts and indoor dining also remains on pause.

Phase 4 also means some TV production can start up again, along with higher education activities.

Alternate Side Parking also resumes this week, but only one day instead of two. The city will go by the last day on the street sign.

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