Areas Near La Guardia and JFK May Lock Down Again
Both Cuomo and de Blasio consider reversing opening in nine New York City zip codes, including areas around the major airports
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio have both said late last week that they are seriously considering reversing opening in nine zip codes in the city where COVID-19 rates are spiking.
Rises of greater than 3 percent COVID-19 in seven consecutive days have been observed in the Queens zip codes of 11415 (Kew Gardens), 11367 and Far Rockaway (11691). Kew Gardens is home to many flight crews on layover as it is in close proximity to JFK and LaGuardia Airports. JFK is near Far Rockaway.
In the event that these zip codes are closed, lockdown protocols will apply and be in effect for up to 28 days or longer. Non-essential businesses will be forced to close and restaurants will only be able to serve take-out meals.
There was no specific mention of hotels but during the first lockdown, hotels were closed as “non-essential.” Kew Gardens is a popular site for layover hotels and layover Airbnbs.
MTA buses to both JFK and LaGuardia run through Kew Gardens. Air Trains run near Far Rockaway. Both services were operational during the first lockdown in March.
However, if the lockdowns go into effect, business travelers seeking layover lodging near the airport should consider staying away from the popular area of “Crew” gardens until a clearer picture of any potential lockdown emerges.
