New Jersey’s stay-at-home order is history. On Tuesday, Governor Phil Murphy ended the state’s coronavirus lockdown effective immediately. Gov. Murphy first issued the stay-at-home order on March 21 as the virus first gripped the tri-state area. Almost 12 weeks later and the state is ready to enter Phase 2 of its reopening plan.
When it was first issued, New Jersey had about 1,300 confirmed COVID-19 cases and just under 20 deaths. As of June 10, the state has approximately 164,796 confirmed cases and 12,303 COVID-19-related deaths, per the state’s COVID-19 dashboard. However, New Jersey’s coronavirus cases and deaths continue to track downward, which is one of the reasons why the governor is permitting more small businesses to reopen.
- Jersey City Pedestrian Plaza to allow for more dining
- Weekend WTC PATH service has been restored
The new executive order also permits up to 100 people to gather outdoors. The number was previously capped at 25. In a tweet, Gov. Murphy says he anticipates outdoor gatherings may be able to grow to 250 people by June 22 and to 500 people by July 3.
Reopening dates to remember
Monday, June 15
-Outdoor dining at food or beverage establishments begins today. No more than eight customers may be allowed per table and there must be at least six feet of distance between parties/tables. Smoking is prohibited in any outdoor areas designated for the consumption of food and/or beverages. On June 15, the Jersey City Pedestrian Plaza will extend to include new streets.
-Retail stores can reopen.
-NJ daycare centers can reopen.
Monday, June 22
-Hair salons and barbershops may reopen.
-Municipal pools may reopen.
-NJ youth, high school, and college sports may resume provided they don’t involve person-to-person contact or routinely entail individuals interacting within six feet of one another. Events must be held outdoors.
Monday, July 6
-NJ summer camps can reopen.
Also included in Phase 2 (with no specific dates)
-Limited fitness/gym access.
-Limited in-person government services.
-Museums & libraries reopen.
