Mercer Times

Governor Phil Murphy has signed a bill into law that permanently allows outdoor dining for restaurants and certain alcohol retailers in New Jersey. The measure, which was initially introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, was due to expire on November 30, 2024. It will now continue indefinitely, supporting the food and beverage industry by permitting the expansion of licensed premises into designated outdoor spaces or public sidewalks.

"Outdoor dining has proven to be an incredibly successful venture over the past four years, benefiting business owners and patrons alike," stated Governor Murphy. "I’m proud to continue this popular measure and look forward to seeing our restaurant industry continue to grow."

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin expressed his satisfaction with the decision: "I’m pleased that both New Jersey residents and restaurants will be able to continue enjoying this option, which has a positive impact on our downtowns and enhances our communities." Kirstin Krueger, Interim Director of the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control, also supported the change: "This permanent change to the state’s retail consumption segment of the alcoholic beverage industry is a commonsense approach to changing customer preferences."

Tim Sullivan, CEO of the Economic Development Authority, highlighted the significance of outdoor dining during the pandemic: "During the pandemic, outdoor dining was critical to allowing so many restaurants to stay open... Thanks to the bill signed by Governor Murphy... helping to revitalize communities by attracting more foot traffic."

In another development, ANSELMI & DE CICCO, INC., a small business based in Maplewood, New Jersey, has been awarded Contract 4B for the Port Monmouth Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The contract is valued at $61.8 million and is part of efforts to improve coastal resilience in Port Monmouth.

Senator Helmy praised this investment: "I am pleased to see the Army Corps of Engineers making such a critical investment..." Congressman Frank Pallone noted that "this project began as a promise after Sandy—to rebuild smarter..."

Commissioner LaTourette described it as a historic step for climate resilience efforts in New Jersey: "We are deeply grateful... More than a decade in the making... I am proud..."

Meanwhile, during USDOL’s Apprenticeship Week in November, New Jersey's Department of Labor celebrated apprenticeship initiatives across the state. Since Governor Murphy took office in January 2018, about $73 million has been invested in these programs.

Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo emphasized their importance: "Apprenticeships are a cornerstone of our workforce strategy in New Jersey..."