Yesterday, some COVID-19 restrictions were rolled back in New Jersey. Bar seating and buffets are now permitted at restaurants and bars. Additionally, the indoor event capacity has been increased to 50% to accommodate proms, political gatherings, weddings, funerals, memorial services, and performances. The outdoor gathering limit is currently set at 500 people, but the state anticipates completely removing the limit on outdoor gatherings in the next couple of weeks to make way for summer events.

On May 19th, the state is expected to continue lessening restrictions. The current restaurant 50% indoor capacity limit will be lifted, and NJ’s restaurants and other indoor businesses will be allowed to operate at whatever capacity is necessary to ensure a minimum of six-foot distance between groups. The state is also planning to remove the prohibition on tables of eight people or more.

The general indoor gathering limit will also be revised on May 19th for house parties and will double from 25 to 50 people. For catered events, which are currently limited to 50% of a room’s capacity up to a maximum of 250, the percentage capacity will be scrapped. This means that these events will be limited to a maximum of 250 people so long as social distancing can be maintained.

As NJ continues to reopen, the NJ Department of Health is encouraging residents to continue to get vaccinated. In addition to the walk-in vaccination appointments that are available at all six NJ megasites, including the one in Rockaway, the COVID-19 vaccine is also available locally at Robinson Drug and Compounding Center and CVS Pharmacy in Mendham.

Have a good weekend and take care.

Sarah Neibart

Mayor, Mendham Township