Newark issues two-week Executive order to expand business indoor capacity to 35%. Order follows Murphy’s lead on re-openings

Mayor Ras J. Baraka today issued a two-week Executive Order that will expand business indoor capacity limits from 25 percent to 35 percent, starting tomorrow, Friday, February 5, and continuing through Friday, February 19, and all curfews issued in earlier Executive Orders for specific Zip Codes are rescinded. The order follows Governor Phil Murphy’s statewide Executive Order 219, issued February 3.

Under the Order, indoor capacity is raised to 35 percent, up to a maximum of 150 people. Masks must be worn at all times, including in restaurants and other eating establishments, except while eating or drinking. There shall be no sitting at bars in restaurants, social clubs, or other entertainment venues, and no indoor parties whatsoever. Non-essential businesses must close by 10 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 11 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays.

“We are working to give our residents and businesses hope during this challenging time, expand opportunities to shop and dine outside of the home, and strengthen our economy for our entrepreneurs,” Mayor Baraka said. “We will closely monitor the COVID-19 situation, and if cases go back up, we will return to more stringent guidelines. For now, I urge residents to stay vigilant, wear double masks, practice social distancing, and wash hands frequently.”

The City will deploy inspectors to ensure that this Executive Order is followed. The order will be reviewed on February 19.

Newark’s test-positivity rate, using a three-day rolling average was 15 percent as of January 23.