Herrington’s helps fills the local need for Plexiglas safety shields

MILLERTON — As area residents slowly make their way back to their favorite establishments following the months-long shut down caused by the coronavirus pandemic, they may find themselves safer from COVID-19 infection thanks in part to area Plexiglas suppliers such as Herrington’s.

According to Robert Runge, location  manager at the hardware store’s Millerton location, the long-time business has always carried Plexiglas, but since the economy has been reopening, Herrington’s has sold more Plexiglas than ever as workers have cut sheets to size for “quite a few businesses.”  Although it’s not donating the material to local businesses, as it still needs to make a profit — especially during such difficult economic times — Herrington’s is selling the much-sought-after material at a reduced price if the customer asks and indicates it is being purchased for protection purposes. 

Runge added that constructing the shields improves the shopping experience for businesses cautiously reopening in New York state, as it allows both patrons and workers to feel safe while being able to be closer than the otherwise recommended 6 feet. 

Because Herrington’s was considered an “essential business” by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, it wasn’t required to shut down during the height of the COVID-19 outbreak, though it was limited to curbside service until the first part of April. That’s when it opened its doors again to the public, and became the first Millerton commercial enterprise to use a Plexiglas shield. 

Runge said while things were a bit slow at first with customers being nervous to shop in person, he said now, “It’s loosening up. It’s not as bad as it was. Everybody’s happy to come in,” he said, adding, “Just wear a mask.”