NYC Days From Phase 3 Of Reopening, Mayor Says

NEW YORK CITY – New York is on track to enter the next phase of reopening on July 6, Mayor Bill de Blasio said Thursday.

Phase 3 includes indoor restaurant service, nail salons, massage therapists and other personal care services. All will have restrictions in place to ensure social distancing.

The mayor said a lot of recreation facilities would also come back, including public basketball courts and dog runs.

"This really put young people through so much strain," the mayor said as he announced the return of recreation. "We have to help young people, we have to make this summer better for them."

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The mayor said the decision to enter the next phase of reopening would be based on data. On Thursday, new hospital admissions were at 60, ICU occupancy was at 329 and only 2 percent of tests were coming back as positive - well within the guidelines needed to reopen.

"We'll make the final decision as we get closer but the date is telling us yes right now," de Blasio said.

Restrictions on indoor dining are expected to include limiting occupancy to 50 percent, having tables at least 6 feet apart and face coverings must be worn at all times by patrons unless they're seated.