More capacity limits and restrictions lifted in New Jersey. Here’s what you need to know
More limits and
restrictions around New Jersey have been lifted. Starting Wednesday,
there are no limits on outdoor gatherings.
Regular indoor
gatherings can now have up to 50 people, and up to 250 people are
allowed at indoor catered events, such as funerals and political gatherings.
Large indoor
venues with more than 1,000 seats, such as the Prudential Center in
Newark, can now have up to 30% capacity.
Both outdoor and
indoor capacity limits at businesses are also lifted, including restaurants,
houses of worship, gyms, salons and barbershops. But 6-feet social
distancing rules still apply. Business owners say that brings limitations.
VACCINE INFORMATION: Check to see if you
are eligible
APPOINTMENT INFORMATION: Where and how to get
vaccinated
SEARCH FOR A CURE: Statistics and State Resources
“For the
hospitality business, it's definitely the 6 feet. If we could eliminate
the 6 feet, it would be a lot easier to be able to make money. How about
3? Let's meet halfway,” says restaurant and bar owner Jim Finnegan.
That's a request
and wish for many businesses, not just restaurants and bars.
Besides social
distancing, business owners say staffing is another issue.
Westfield Mayor
Shelley Brindle posted on Facebook this morning her Post-COVID New Beginning
plan, letting residents know Town Hall reopens June 1, the town pool
will be reopened this summer, and some of the stuff that started last summer,
including outdoor entertainment and open streets and pedestrian plazas, will
also stay open.