While Gov. Phil Murphy (D) updated his stay-at-home executive order this afternoon to allow some businesses to operate on a limited basis, he noted that golf courses should be closed – prompting Hudson County’s Skyway Golf Course to shut down almost immediately.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“The second clarification reiterates that golf courses are closed and will remain – and should remain – closed as recreational businesses,” Murphy said at a press conference this afternoon that centered around the state’s ongoing effort to curb the spread of COVID-19.
While gun stores can now open by appointment only, following guidelines issued by the Department of Homeland security, along with breweries being permitted to make deliveries, the governor was clear that golf course were certainly still non-essential.
The golf course, owned by the Hudson County Incinerator Authority and located at 515 Duncan Ave., had remained open since Murphy issued the initial order on March 21st since they are technically park of a county park, according to HCIA spokeswoman Caitlin Mota.
However, she also said that the course has been closed “effective immediately” in a statement sent a few hours after Murphy’s remarks.
“With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to spread, Hudson County and the Hudson County Improvement Authority have decided to close Skyway Golf Course effective immediately,” Mota said.
“County officials are continuing to work with local and state leaders to take all necessary steps to slow the spread of the virus while still providing essential services to the residents of Hudson County.”
The New Jersey Department of Health said today that there are 1,314 cases of COVID-19 in Hudson County, the third most in the state behind Essex and Bergen Counties.