Coney Island businesses still hiring for 2021 season, with hundreds of positions to fill

Coney Island businesses are still hiring for the 2021 season. 
They are looking to ramp up their staffing as they welcome hundreds of visitors to the boardwalk this season. The amusement attractions, eateries and retail locations have about 100 to 300 available positions in total. 
Deno Vourderis, whose family owns Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, says the staff shortage is taking a toll on business. 
"It's been a little strenuous on our current staff where they're working a little more than they would normally work. We're definitely in need of some more staff to help us get through the August, September, and October season,” said Vourdeis. 
Alliance for Coney Island Executive Director Alexandra Silversmith says hiring events are usually held at the beginning of the year. She says the pandemic halted that from happening. 
"The demand has outpaced the workforce that we have here, so I think what I've heard is that there are a little bit of longer lines at certain establishments for food and things like that, but it hasn't forced anybody as far as I know to close,” said Silversmith. 
Among the businesses, both seasonal and year-round jobs are available.