Gov. Phil Murphy announced Thursday that New Jersey saw 1,216 new positive cases of COVID-19, for a statewide total of 142,704 cases. The governor also announced an additional 244 deaths. The statewide death toll stands at 9,946.

But perhaps the biggest announcement at Thursday's briefing is the news that beaches at the Jersey Shore will be allowed to reopen by Memorial Day - provided social distancing guidelines are followed.

It is the latest stop in the governor's reopening plan. On Wednesday, Murphy announced that nonessential business could reopen by 6 a.m. Monday by offering curbside pickup. Nonessential construction projects could also resume on Monday.