Asbury Park Defies Gov. Murphy's Order, Will Allow Indoor Dining
ASBURY PARK, N.J. (AP) - Asbury Park, the Jersey shore city often associated with Bruce Springsteen, is defying New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy's executive order and will allow limited indoor dining at its restaurants. The City Council Wednesday approved a resolution permitting its restaurants to host diners inside at 25% of the building's capacity or 50 people, whichever is less, beginning June 15.
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The governor on Tuesday set similar restrictions for indoor gatherings when he announced only outdoor dining for bars and restaurants could resume on June 15. The Democrat has yet to say when they can reopen for indoor seating.
According to the Asbury Park Press, Deputy Mayor Amy Quinn said the city took the action because restrictions implemented to control the coronavirus pandemic were taking a toll on the city's restaurants. A popular eatery announced last week it would close permanently.
Allowing diners inside still carries risks.
"While the city of Asbury Park is not going to levy any fines against you, the state of New Jersey could," Quinn said.
Murphy commented on the situation Thursday afternoon.
"All of our efforts to date have been centered around the very basic principles of protecting health and protecting people," Murphy said. "We have relied on science and data, period. That's why we've been clear about two things: Public Health Creates Economic Health and Data Determines Dates. We have come to far together to see all the good 9 million New Jerseyans have done, undone in haste. One step forward today can not, must not and will not lead to two steps back tomorrow. I fully understand and appreciate the economic pressures believe me, especially our small businesses, including the folks in the hospitality industry, you've been crushed. We get it, we understand it."
He mentioned other states that rushed to reopen are experiencing an spike in COVID-19 cases.
"We move as one state, guided by data," Murphy said.
Copyright 2020 The Associated Press.
