Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla is urging residents to wear face masks at all time while outdoors, stating that it is the best way to protect neighbors and first responders from COVID-19 at this juncture.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“If you’re going out for a short walk or need to be outdoors for any reason, I strongly urge you to do so away from the waterfront and early in the morning, or later at night to avoid large groups of people. And if you’re outside for any reason, you should be wearing a mask at all times,” the mayor said in a statement.
“To not wear one is putting yourself and your neighbors at risk. You may not think you have the virus because you had no symptoms, but you very well could. And breathing on a railing, accidentally bumping into someone else, and more could have a ripple effect. Even if you’re just taking a leisurely stroll, please have some consideration for others, especially as many are wearing face covers to protect you, and rightfully expect you would do the same for them.”
The suggestion is not a directive, like the one’s that have recently taken effect in New York and neighboring Union City.
Bhalla made the announcement as part of the city’s daily COVID-19 update, which indicated that there are now 395 cases of COVID-19 and no newly reported fatalities, leaving their total at 19.
Police Chief Kenneth Ferrante has also recently expressed concerns about crowds congregating along the waterfront, even after local parks closed late last month, and has also encouraged people to wear masks when they leave their homes.
“We are making great progress & Hoboken’s numbers are very good. Please stay home or wear your masks when you need to go out!,” he tweeted.
Earlier this month, Hoboken OEM mandated all essential business employees and customers to wear face covers, prior to the statewide emergency order signed by Gov. Phil Murphy (D).
