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.