SCHENECTADY, N.Y. – Mayor Gary McCarthy is encouraging local small businesses to share their plans for take-out, delivery, or other special offers they’re providing in response to the current COVID-19 restrictions. The Mayor made this announcement in partnership with the Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation (DSIC) and Discover Schenectady.
The states of Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York issued new restrictions yesterday limiting the capacity of public gatherings to a maximum of 50 people, and requiring restaurants and bars move to take-out and delivery services only. These establishments will be provided a waiver for carry-out alcohol.
“Our primary goal as a community must be to slow the spread of this virus, and so we’re strongly advising members of the community to practice social distancing,” said Mayor McCarthy. “But as we fight the spread of COVID-19 by making these adjustments in our daily lives, we also need to remember to support our local small businesses that are following these new restrictions in a safe and responsible manner.”
Discover Schenectady, as the designated Tourism Promotion Agency of Schenectady County, has compiled a list of Schenectady County restaurants that are providing delivery and take out services at this time. DSIC has also been compiling a list of what downtown small businesses are offering to help the community show their support.
Members of the community may also show their support for local businesses by purchasing a gift card that can be used in the future, McCarthy added.
“While we all are adjusting to the temporary new normal of social distancing, please know that our small businesses in Downtown Schenectady are doing everything they can to adhere to new restrictions while continuing to serve the public in a safe and sensitive manner,” said Jim Salengo, Executive Director, DSIC. “Local businesses are vital to our community, so we are compiling and sharing details on their special offers and services to encourage people to continue showing their support during this very challenging time.”
“Our hospitality industry is the beating heart of our community,” said Becky Daniels, Executive Director, Discover Schenectady. “It’s our neighbors, it’s our family, and it’s our friends. We are committed to working collaboratively to do all we can to support our restaurants, bars, entertainment venues and cultural institutions to help them weather this storm. We encourage everyone that is able to support these businesses and organizations through ordering food, purchasing gift cards or making donations to do so.”
Local small businesses currently listed are encouraged to contact Discover Schenectady at info@discoverschenectady.com and DSIC at info@downtownschenectady.org. Their websites and social media pages will be regularly updated with information and details on take-out, delivery, or other special offerings from the small business community.