The Hudson Valley is expected to enter its final phase of reopening Tuesday, including New Rochelle - the original epicenter of the pandemic.

New Rochelle resident Alex Forero says it wasn’t easy being the first to go through the health crisis. Gov. Andrew Cuomo even declared the area a containment zone.

New Rochelle City Hall is reopening for the first time on July 6 since it was shut down at the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

More businesses will be reopening in the region as well, including higher education institutions and low-risk indoor and outdoor arts and entertainment.

Media productions can resume and sports can be played, but without fans. Limits on gatherings will also be increased from 25 people to 50.

New Rochelle resident Domingo Mostes hopes people will stay safe.

Kokulaba Mujunangoma, of New Rochelle, fears the virus’ return especially as cases spike in most states in the U.S., but she feels that the city here is better prepared for it.