New York City may never be the same again as extended coronavirus shutdown clouds future

America’s cultural capital shows no sign of easing a two-month lockdown as authorities fear another wave of infections

With Broadway theatres and beaches closed, New York’s status as a bustling metropolis seems unimaginable in the foreseeable future

Reading Time:3 minutes

A handful of pedestrians walk through Times Square as streets remain relatively quiet due to the coronavirus outbreak in Manhattan, New York on May 5. Photo: Reuters

Published: 11:57pm, 15 May 2020Updated: 9:18pm, 13 Oct 2020

New York City extended a two-month lockdown, even as parts of the state began to open up on Friday, leaving America’s cultural and commercial capital wondering what its future holds.

While many European cities begin the process of reviving their economies, the Big Apple – America’s coronavirus epicentre – shows no sign of easing restrictions as authorities fear sparking another wave of Covid-19 infections.

“I’m bored to tears,” said sprightly 80-year-old Rhoda Glass, who at this time of year would normally be bouncing between the several charities where she volunteers.

“I’m just hoping we come back to a semblance of normal pretty soon,” she said.

03:56

That wish seems unlikely with Mayor Bill de Blasio saying New York City will have to wait until June before a decision can be made on when non-essential businesses, such as its world-renowned museums, can reopen.