Slowly but surely, the country is starting to open back up from closures that occurred because of COVID-19. New Jersey is starting to allow customers in racetracks and casinos.
Governor Phil Murphy gave his approval for more businesses to open in New Jersey just before the July 4th weekend. However, this does come with its fair share of restrictions.
Racetracks, playgrounds, museums, aquariums, libraries, bowling allies, batting cages, as well as amusement and water parks are now all open to the public. Masks must be worn at all of these locations. Casinos must stay at a 25% capacity.
“For us to continue down this road back, everyone needs to be an example of personal responsibility,” said Murphy. “It isn’t up to some of us to beat COVID-19. It’s up to every single one of the 9 million of us.”
Back To Work
Atlantic City’s casinos have been out of operation for a total of 108 days. Many customers were happy, but the employees might have had more joy than anyone coming back.
“Walking around this morning, lots of hugs, people really glad to be back,” said Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City President Joe Lupo. “It feels great to open. It’s unusual circumstances, but we’re just happy to be able to bring some people back to work.”
There are still several restrictions to limit the spread of the virus as well as a second surge. Some places that have opened up are starting to see a rise in positive coronavirus tests.
With a second check form the government in question, people need to get back to work. They might not be bringing back everyone, but Thursday was a start for casinos in New Jersey.
Chairman of Hard Rock International and CEO of Seminole Gaming Jim Allen said, “Certainly back in March when COVID really became an issue, not just here in NJ, but around the world, we certainly went to a very limited staff, less than probably 200 people.”
Eight of the casinos in Atlantic City will be opening this week. Drinking and smoking will still be banned on the casino floor.
“We wanted to get our employees back to work so they would have the opportunity to start putting a paycheck in their household, so for me, there wasn’t a yield that we weren’t going to do that,” Allen told 6abc.
Still Closed
Governor Murphy delayed the opening of indoor restaurants, so they will not be available for the July 4th weekend. This was a direct response to some of the spikes that have been seen in other states.
Fans will be able to go back to Meadowlands Park in East Rutherford. The grandstand will be at 25% capacity, while patrons will be required to take their temperature before entering.
Even though there is currently a low number of sports to wager on, FanDuel Sportsbook will be opening to accept on-site bets. But this is just in time for the return of MLB and the NBA that will be happening shortly.