Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora has
extended COVID-19-related
business restrictions in the city for a third time, after the order was scheduled to end
Dec. 5.
Mayor Gusciora extended the restrictions until Feb. 5, citing
Trenton's struggles with positive COVID-19 cases, which mirror the state’s
struggles.
“Just
look at what happened in Los Angeles, they’re all on divert status and we don’t
want that to happen here,” says Mayor Gusciora.
Although positive cases continue to
increase, the mayor says the restrictions have proven to help keep the negative
impact at bay.
“We’ve actually seen bars that don’t
maintain the social distancing protocols have actually had outbreaks that
tracers have been able to tag right to the bars or restaurants,” says Mayor Gusciora.
Joseph
Festa is the owner of State Barber Shop. He’s been in Trenton for decades and
agrees with the mayor’s decision, even though coronavirus continues to cost him
customers.
“We
have 40,000 state workers working in town, it was most of my business,” says
Festa. “So, there not here, but again I will appreciate them when they come
back even more.”
All Trenton businesses, including restaurants, bars and
convenience stores, must close at 10 p.m. daily. This does not affect
"essential" businesses such as grocery stores or pharmacies.
Outdoor dining, takeout and delivery services may continue after 10 p.m., provided
that no parties congregate inside or outside the establishment.
All city residents are encouraged to continue mask wearing and social
distancing and remain indoors after 10 p.m.
COVID-19 testing for Trenton residents is available on Jan. 12 and
Jan. 15 at the Mott Elementary School on Stokely Avenue. It's free, but
residents who have health insurance should bring their insurance card and proof
of Trenton residency.