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Buffalo to close city buildings and reduce government; Broadway Market Easter season is off

Facebook/Mayor Byron Brown

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown announced Monday that as of 8 p.m., City Hall and other city buildings would close, and government operations will comply with Governor Cuomo's guidelines for reducing risks to spread COVID-19 coronavirus. The city is also enforcing the shutdown of numerous attractions in order to comply with a "less than 50 people" rule, and one of the biggest casualties of this will be one of Buffalo's most popular Eastertime traditions.

Speaking from City Hall, Mayor Brown announced that city government operations will be reduced by 50 percent on site through March 31. Those not working in city offices will be working from home.

"This applies to all non-essential personnel," Brown said. "Both essential and non-essential employees shall receive pay at their regular rate and non-essential employees will be able to work remotely from home on a rolling basis."

Additionally, park facilities and youth activities are closed. So, too, are city-owned indoor pools and ice rinks. Community centers and their programs will be closed, though the mayor noted that the buildings could be opened for needs including distribution of critical materials.

He also delivered a mix of good news and bad news regarding the Broadway Market, which under normal conditions would be readying for its busiest time of the year.

"The Broadway Market will remain open, with year-round food service. Vendors will be available to serve take-out meals only. Easter season vendors will not open," Brown said. "This weekend, Easter season sneak peak events are canceled. The Easter season ribbon cutting scheduled for March 26 has also been canceled."

The mayor added that the city is enforcing the "50 or less" rule for various businesses. Movie theaters and gyms will be closed. Bars and restaurants will be limited to take-out and delivery orders.

Michael Mroziak is an experienced, award-winning reporter whose career includes work in broadcast and print media. When he joined the WBFO news staff in April 2015, it was a return to both the radio station and to Horizons Plaza.
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