Mayor Baraka Announces Major Measures To Combat Spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) In Newark

On the back of Gov. Phil Murphy’s announcement of state-wide restrictions, in partnership with NY and CT, Mayor Ras J. Baraka announced a series of sweeping measures to address the threat of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the City of Newark. The restrictive measures include minimal staffing at City Hall, services offered to residents there by appointment only, closing of non-essential businesses by 8 p.m., and the banning of crowds of more than 50 people. A list of the measures follows, in which compliance will be enforced.

• City Hall will be staffed at minimal levels and open to residents by appointment only for an indefinite period. To make an appointment, please call the usual numbers of the departments whose services are being sought or the Non-Emergency Call Center at (973) 733-4311.
• Police, fire, sanitation, healthcare, WIC, homeless services, water, and lead service line replacement services will continue to function normally.
• All public, private, and parochial schools are closed indefinitely.
• Non-essential businesses must close by 8 p.m.daily, effective today. This does not apply to medical facilities, drug stores, gas stations, or grocery stores.
• Restaurants can only be open for take-out and delivery services. No dining in at all and they must close by 8 p.m.
• All City senior and recreation centers will be closed.
• All gyms, movie houses, bars, and theaters will be closed per Governor Murphy’s Executive Order.
• Senior residential buildings will not accept visitors.
• No one should be on the road or outside beyond 8 p.m. unless it’s an emergency; only essential or emergency travel.
• Crowds of more than 50 people are banned.

“While these regulations are necessarily stringent, we want to urge residents to stay informed and for everyone to do their part to help us contain this Coronavirus. We all have a deep responsibility to help mitigate the spread,” Mayor Baraka said. “Newark is strong – we will get through this – but we must work together.”

Mayor Baraka and Director of Health and Community Wellness Dr. Mark Wade, M.D., will hold a Virtual Town Hall with city residents tomorrow, Tuesday, March 17, at 7 p.m. The Virtual Town Hall will discuss the health impact of Coronavirus on Newark, steps the city is taking to address it, and measures residents can take to protect themselves.

Residents can call in to the Town Hall at (855)-756-7520 Ext.56949# to ask questions.