Gov. Murphy To Reopen NJ Libraries, Museums, Indoor Recreation

NEW JERSEY – Gov. Phil Murphy said he will allow libraries, bowling alleys, indoor recreation – including gymnastic centers and dance studios – and other businesses to reopen. He made this announcement as he revealed 317 additional coronavirus cases and 48 more deaths (you can watch it here, below).

Murphy said he was able to announce more openings because of the progress New Jersey has made in "crushing" the curve of cases.

"We have crushed the curve of new cases," he said. "We've gotten to where we are through shared sacrifice."

Here is what will be allowed to reopen:

• On July 2, museums, aquariums, bowling alleys, shooting ranges, arcades and indoor recreation – including gymnastic centers and dance studios – can reopen at 25 percent of capacity.
• On July 2, libraries will also be able to reopen.
• On July 2, gym and fitness centers will be allowed to open only for individualized training, and by appointment, involving one person and/or your family.
• On July 6, NJ Transit will return to full weekday service.

Social distancing and wearing face coverings will be required in these places.

Movie theaters, concert venues, performing arts centers and night clubs will remain closed, Murphy said.

"It brings us no joy" that those facilities can't open yet, Murphy said, but "we're just not there yet."

"Look at the flare-ups in other states – we just can't mimic other states," Murphy said, adding that the chance of transmitting the virus inside is much greater than outside.

Murphy pointed to graphs that showed New Jersey's progress:

But Murphy said some counties have also had slight flare-ups recently, and they could have happened because of a lack of social distancing indoors:

The update comes as Murphy and New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that they've issued new travel rules, saying people from high-infection states "must quarantine" if they're traveling to the area. Here's what you have to do if you're coming to New Jersey. Read more: High-Infection State Travelers To NJ 'Must Quarantine': Gov.

The update also comes as the number of cases has risen to 169,892, and 12,995 people have died. Read more: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know

Murphy announced on Tuesday that playgrounds, water and amusement parks will soon reopen. He made the announcement as he announced an additional 382 coronavirus cases and 57 more deaths. Read more: Gov. Murphy: NJ Playgrounds, Water And Amusement Parks To Reopen

Watch Murphy here:

New Jersey Coronavirus Updates: Don't miss local and statewide announcements about novel coronavirus precautions. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.