In response to the fast-spreading and unprecedented public health crisis caused by Novel Coronavirus 2019, Mayor Ted R. Green has declared a State of Emergency in the City of East Orange.

Effective Tuesday, March 17- Friday, March 27, City Hall Plaza, all municipal buildings, city parks and the East Orange Golf Course will be temporarily closed to the public. Citizens are encouraged to conduct city business via telephone, email or online, while all emergency matters will be appropriately monitored and managed by essential personnel.

In alignment with Governor Phil Murphy, East Orange strongly encourages an 8pm-5am curfew on all non-essential travel and is restricting all non-essential businesses from being open during that time. Essential services such as supermarkets, grocery stores, pharmacies, medical offices, and gas stations, may stay open at their normal hours, while restaurants are now limited to take-out or delivery only.

These restrictions will remain in place until further notice.

“Life as we know it has changed, but we have to adapt and adjust as quickly as possible so we can collectively fight the spread of this deadly virus,” said Mayor Green. “I am urging everyone to remain calm, look out for your neighbor, help those in need and continue taking precautionary measures recommended by our health experts. This is a time to be very serious and vigilant about how we take care of ourselves and our community.”

Dr. Monique S. Griffith, Director of Health and Human Services, recommends frequent handwashing for 20 seconds and disinfecting common areas regularly. When soap and water is not available, an alcohol-based sanitizer should be used.

Transportation for seniors will continue for essential trips to medical appointments, pharmacies and supermarkets. To schedule a pick-up, please call 973.266.8832.

East Orange Public Schools will be temporarily closed until March 31. Virtual learning and Grab N’ Go breakfast and lunch sites have been implemented to minimize the risk of exposure. For details, please visit the school district’s website at www.eastorange.k12.nj.us.

Anyone with questions pertaining to the coronavirus should call the East Orange Health Department Hotline at 973.266.5480.

For more information, please visit www.nj.gov/health or www.cdc.gov and follow us on Facebook/Instagram @EOCityHall or www.eastorange-nj.gov for local updates.