Gov. Murphy: NJ Pools To Reopen Amid Coronavirus: Here's When

NEW JERSEY – Gov. Phil Murphy announced Monday that municipal and private-club swimming pools can reopen amid the coronavirus outbreak, and rules and guidelines were released. He made the announcement as Murphy said New Jersey has 356 more coronavirus cases and 40 more deaths (you can watch it here, below).

Murphy said municipal and private-club swimming pools will reopen on Monday, June 22nd. The update comes as the number of cases rose to 164,164 in New Jersey, and 12,176 people have died. Read more: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know

Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli said pools will be allowed to reopen as long as:

• Capacity is reduced to 50 percent
• Staff and patrons must safely distance
• Signs and makings should denote 6 feet of space between people
• Face coverings are recommended, but not in the pool
• Pools should stagger access points for entry and exits
• Reservations are requested
• Guests should sign-in to help with contact tracing
• Occupancy in restrooms should be limited
• Foot coverings much be worn in restrooms and shower areas
• Staff should be screened for fever and COVID-19 symptoms
• Gloves should be worn by staff
• Disinfection should happen frequently
• Pool toys shouldn't be permitted

Officials have felt confident that pools can reopen safely, noting that the coronavirus is not likely to spread in pools if they are properly maintained with chlorine and bromine, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"We know a lot of people have been waiting for their ability to get back into the water. We don't blame them," he said.

The announcement also comes weeks after the governor first said he was ready to make a decision on pools, but then later changed course, saying the issue had become more "complicated" than expected. Read more: Will Casinos, Pools, Gyms Open? Gov. Murphy Says It's Complicated

Now that the summer season has arrived, Murphy acknowledged that a number of communities are anxious to allow swimming as part of their recreational offerings.

"We can give everyone that date, Monday June 22nd, a day to look forward to," Murphy said.

Summer camps can use their pools when they reopen on July 6th.

Murphy said he also hopes to soon release rules and guidance for summer camps within the next few days.

Watch Murphy here:

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