To mitigate the spread of coronavirus in New York’s largest hot spot, State public health authorities have established a one-mile containment area from the epicenter of the outbreak within which large gatherings will be prohibited. At a minimum, this affects schools, both public and private, houses of worship, and potentially other large institutions in the area.  To emphasize, this is purely a limitation on large gatherings; it is not a quarantine or exclusion zone, and it does not apply to individual residents and families or to individual businesses.  We are still collaborating with State authorities to create a complete list of affected institutions and to provide appropriate guidance.

Additionally:

-The City is assisting in the distribution of hand sanitizer from New York State to large institutions throughout New Rochelle, especially those serving seniors.  At present, hand sanitizer is not available for the general public.

-We are informed that the National Guard will be assisting with cleaning and logistical and operational challenges in our community, including the distribution of meals to students who rely on school lunches and breakfasts at schools that have closed.  The City stands ready to coordinate with and support the Guard’s efforts in any constructive fashion, and has activated our emergency operations center in order to be fully prepared for any requests.

As a reminder: public health experts have been clear that the great majority of those who contract coronavirus will recover without difficulty, and that we can protect ourselves and our families by following common sense public health guidelines.  

New Rochelle is a strong and resilient community.  Although this is a significant challenge, we will meet it calmly, with seriousness of purpose, and with support for and from all of our neighbors.