UPDATE FROM MAYOR BHALLA ON COVID-19
Impact of COVID-19 in Hoboken
The Hoboken Health Department reported 10 confirmed cases of COVID-19 yesterday, for a total of 485 known, confirmed cases. Thankfully there were no fatalities, which remain at 23.
Continued importance of social distancing and wearing face covers
As Governor Murphy prepares the state for a gradual re-opening, we must not lose sight of the most effective way to beat the virus is by continuing to social distance. It’s key for us all to continue to plan ahead and limit unnecessary trips outside, wear a face mask at all times outdoors, interact with friends and family at a distance, and more – especially as the weather gets nicer. The curve in our region is starting to come down, and that’s thanks to all of your hard work in self-isolation and social distancing practices. It’s not easy, but know it is what is keeping us safe.
Antibody testing
While we’ve significantly expanded COVID-19 testing in Hoboken, we’re also taking steps to acquire antibody testing for our residents. While antibody testing doesn’t necessarily indicate immunity from future exposure to the virus, it will allow residents to know if they had COVID-19 and allow them to donate “convalescent plasma” to help current COVID-19 patients. We will be announcing these plans for public antibody testing in Hoboken in the near future for all residents who want it. Currently, a number of medical providers in town offer antibody testing, which residents can contact for more information if they wish to receive a test in the immediate future.
All rules, regulations and closures in effect next week
Street sweeping will remain suspended next week, with meters in effect as mandated by the Office of Emergency Management to increase turnover in front of essential businesses. As a reminder, while City Hall is not open to the public, all departments are continuing to serve Hoboken residents online, through email or by phone. Services through the Hoboken Parking Utility (HPU) remain operational online, including the renewal of parking permits, which takes place online through the HPU portal. If you need help with your online permit application or don’t have an HPU Online account, please call 201-653-1919 Monday through Friday, 8:00 am until 4:00 pm.
Update on essential businesses
Due to a recent Executive Order by Governor Phil Murphy, pet grooming businesses and pet daycares are now considered an essential retail business and permitted to remain open, as long as strict social distancing practices are observed.
Storytime with the Hoboken Library
The Hoboken Library continues to provide important services for our children, and I’m pleased to join them tomorrow for “Storytime with the Hoboken Library” at 3:00 pm on facebook live (facebook.com/RaviBhallaHoboken). For more information on virtual programming offered by the library, visit https://hobokenlibrary.org/.
Thank you, Hoboken, and as always, please stay safe.
Sincerely,
Ravi S. Bhalla
Mayor