We've learned over the past 18 months that many jobs can be done successfully from anywhere. With new COVID variants impacting reopening plans across the state, we checked in with our 511NY Rideshare partners to learn more about their current work arrangements, and plans moving. We hope their stories can help you evaluate your own worksite needs and plan for the future.

---

Here's what we learned from our partners:

SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University

SUNY Downstate – a medical school in Brooklyn, requires vaccines for all employees, staff, faculty, and students. Employees have been back since July, and undergrads returned at the end of the summer. The campus hasn't changed its plans because of new variants, and most classes will be held in person. Students will be allowed to eat indoors with social distancing or eat outside. Some programs, such as nursing, are still virtual. The university is working to boost morale by offering live music and events—hosted safely outside.

"I love being on campus with the students. My commute is over an hour, but I don't mind because I read my book. I've heard the traffic is worse than ever, so I'm happy to take the trains."
-Adam B., Assistant Director of Student Activities

---

Chinese American Independent Practice Association (CAIPA)

The Chinese American Independent Practice Association in New York City shared that their employees have concerns about returning to the office. In recent months, employees have voiced that they prefer to work full time at home and do not want to return to the office, so CAIPA has adjusted their return-to-office plans. Some have said that they will look for another job if forced to come back into an office. 

"CAIPA's initial reopening plan was to come back in a hybrid model, three days in office and two days teleworking after Labor Day. Now with the uptick of Covid, we are pushing it back one to two months but could be longer."
- Kiko L., Human Recourses Manager

---

Farmingdale State College 

At Farmingdale State College on Long Island, all staff, faculty, and students are required to be vaccinated and wear masks indoors. Visitors are also required to follow health and safety protocols—including always wearing masks when indoors regardless of vaccination status. Visitors attending outdoor events must show proof of vaccination.

"Faculty will be back on campus full time. Students will follow a hybrid method of in-person and virtual instruction."
- Katy T., Chief Enrollment & Strategy Officer

In a September 2021 survey conducted with 511NY Rideshare partner organizations, 59% said they plan to function in a hybrid capacity with employees splitting time between their home and worksite. 

What is your organization planning? Let us know in the comments below.

State Colleges and Universities (SUNY/CUNY Schools)

All students taking part in in-person learning at CUNY or SUNY schools are required to be vaccinated. Schools have returned to in-person learning for students, with some classes and activities remaining virtual.

"I am in-person for three of my classes and the other two are virtual. Having some in-person classes is a hard transition after covid, but it gives students the opportunity to connect with professors and makes learning easier."
- Sophia B., Sophomore at SUNY Oneonta

---

The 511NY Rideshare team is here to provide resources and information to help guide your planning process and make the transition back easier and enjoyable. 

Our team is comprised of transportation experts across the state who will effectively help you address your organization’s needs – whether you need assistance implementing a hybrid schedule, maintaining long-term telework productivity, or improving your teams' commutes for in-person work.

Visit our Reopening Resources page for more information, and contact us at info@511NYRideshare.org to be connected with your local 511NY Rideshare representative.