Binghamton Mayor “Concerned” About NYC Bus Passengers

Mayor Richard David says there are "legitimate concerns" about the possibility that people arriving in Binghamton by bus could spread COVID-19.

Dr. Deborah Birx, the White House coronavirus task force coordinator, says people who travel from the New York City area should self-quarantine for two weeks.

On WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program Wednesday, David was asked about suggestions that those traveling from downstate COVID-19 "hot spots" to Broome County may be increasing the risk for local residents.

The mayor said "we're in talks with the state about what our options are." He said he believes the self-quarantine advice should be taken by those who have been in the New York City region.

David was asked whether he would stop buses from areas with high numbers of coronavirus cases from dropping off passengers in Binghamton if he had that power. He said "that's absolutely something I would consider."

The mayor said he's investigating options "so someone can make an informed decision on it."

Governor Andrew Cuomo said as of Wednesday morning, 30,811 coronavirus cases had been confirmed in the state. He said 17,856 of those identified cases were in New York City.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: 
bob@wnbf.com

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