City Hall will be back open to the public by June 8, city manager says

Some offices at City Hall will open later this month, with all scheduled to be open by June 8. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - Economic Development Specialist Jenn Marsh said nine parking spots on North Main Street have been converted into alfresco dining areas for three downtown restaurants.

Marsh, speaking during an online meeting organized by the Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Atlantic Broadband, said 14 applications for outdoor dining have been received by a team composed of city officials including herself and Public Health Officer Bob Veno.

And there's more good news for opening restaurants. While live entertainment will not be allowed, the eateries can have music piped into their venues if allowed by normal city ordinance.

"There is nothing in the governor's Stay at Home 2.0 food service industry guidance prohibiting music," said Paul Raymond, COVID-19 state joint information center manager.

Marsh said some Union Street Parking Lot spaces might also be used by some of the downtown restaurants.

Meanwhile, City Manager Blaine Cox announced that by June 8 all city offices will reopen with some opening later this month.

The city announced earlier this week that the tennis and pickleball courts by the Community Center on Wakefield Steet as well as the Squamanagonic Disc Golf Course on Hansonville Road will open on Monday.

Emergency Operations Center Chief Mark Klose noted during the informational meeting that there have been no known Rochester deaths attributed to the coronavirus. He said since the epidemic began there have been 41 confirmed Rochester cases. He said there are currently 16, all of whom are currently isolating at home.