Hoboken Bars And Gyms Can Move To 50 Percent Capacity Friday

HOBOKEN, NJ — Hoboken residents reacted this week to the news that Gov. Phil Murphy will allow New Jersey restaurants, bars, gyms, salons, and similar businesses to expand their indoor dining capacity to 50 percent as of 6 a.m., March 19.

This will be an increase from the 35 percent currently allowed amid coronavirus restrictions, However, seating will still not be allowed at the bar. READ MORE: NJ Bars, Restaurants, Others To Expand To 50 Percent Amid COVID

Hoboken city spokesman Vijay Chaudhuri said Wednesday, "Mayor Bhalla and the city appreciate and respect the data-driven approach Governor Murphy has taken since the very beginning of the pandemic, and will adhere to the updated capacity restrictions as set forth by the State of New Jersey."

David Carney, the general manager of the Madison Bar and Grill in Hoboken, said Wednesday, "I see the light at the end of the tunnel. It's been a long and arduous year. I don't blame anyone for anything...in my heart of hearts I want to believe people were doing that they believed to be right to protect the greater good of the public."

He said he appreciated the federal government's newest offer of PPP loans to small businesses.

"Let's all make the best of troubled times," he said.

One North Jersey mayor recently predicted that as businesses reopen, it may be "like the Roaring '20s." READ MORE: North Jersey Mayor Talks About Unexpected Year

See the state's list of other requirements, such as mask-wearing when not eating, here.

To get a coronavirus vaccine through the sites in Hoboken, Hudson County, or at CVS, Acme, and other means, see Patch's updated story from Friday: Hudson County Covid Vaccine Updates: CVS, Acme, More

Patch Editor Alexis Tarrazi contributed to this report.

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