Lacey Businesses Brace For Impact As Coronavirus Hits NJ

LACEY, NJ — Businesses across New Jersey, including Lacey, are closing and adjusting as the novel coronavirus spreads across the state.

On Monday, Gov. Phil Murphy announced that all movie theaters, performing arts centers, gyms and casinos in New Jersey must immediately close in an attempt to "flatten the curve of new cases" and avoid overwhelming health care systems. It's not clear when these businesses will be allowed to reopen. READ MORE: Restaurants, Theaters In NJ To Shut Due To Coronavirus

The order also requires all "non-essential" retail, recreational and entertainment-based businesses to cease daily operations from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Restaurants can only offer delivery and/or takeout, both during daytime hours and after 8 p.m.

"Essential" businesses which are necessary for the public's health, safety, and welfare — such as grocery stores, pharmacies, medical offices and gas stations — can remain open past 8 p.m.

The decision comes as many businesses throughout New Jersey report being hit hard by the coronavirus' arrival in the Garden State.

According to a survey conducted by the New Jersey Business and Industry Association from March 13 to 15, most respondents said they will need to cut costs due to coronavirus-related hardships, including a reduction of staff, hours and benefits.

"The concerns of our members are extremely clear during this unprecedented time," NJBIA President and CEO Michele Siekerka said. "They are highly concerned about the overall stability of their businesses and the welfare of their employees."

Are you a business owner or employee in Lacey? Let us know how the coronavirus has been affecting your life. Send emails to josh.bakan@patch.com.

CORONAVIRUS: BUSINESS IMPACTS IN THE LACEY AREA

There are no confirmed cases of the coronavirus in Lacey as of Tuesday afternoon. But here are some ways businesses have adjusted to help limit human contact and slow the spread of the disease.

Many restaurants, such as the German Butcher, are offering curbside pickup until they can reopen. Their menu varies based on availability and production. But like many businesses with a small staff, they have faced some challenges.

"There may be certain situations where we ran out of a wanted item on your order," the business wrote on Facebook. "You will be refunded if this occurred. We are forced to temporarily cease online ordering until we can catch up on our inventory and production. We will post online when we are open for more orders."

Forked River Wine and Spirits closed its bar but will keep the liquor store open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. each day. The establishment postponed its St. Patrick's Day celebration to May 17 at the Thirsty Piney, the bar inside the establishment.

Restaurants and bars aren't the only businesses making adjustments. Jersey Shore Barber Supply, for instance, asked customers not to book an appointment if they've traveled out of the country in the past month, feel sick or have been exposed to someone else who doesn't feel well.

Several chains have also adjusted hours and regulations. Walmart in Lacey reduced its hours from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. so the store can stock its shelves and better sanitize. Read more: Lacey Walmart To Reduce Hours Amid NJ Coronavirus Spread

ShopRite stores recently set limits on how many items of certain products people can buy. The Lacey location also announced that they cannot accept returns until further notice.

Dollar General, which has a Forked River location, strongly encouraged customers Tuesday to let only seniors shop during the first hour each day. Stores will also close one hour earlier so employees can better clean and restock the shop. Lacey's Dollar General is normally open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day.

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