Like most businesses in New Jersey, we were forced to temporarily close on March 16 due to COVID-19 concerns. When we closed, we thought it would be for a few weeks. We could have never imagined where we are today – entering week 14 – still closed other than limited outside dining that was permitted this Monday. When we learned that Governor Murphy was allowing outside dining on June 15, we called Peter Valesi, the Freehold Township Administrator, to discuss the process. He assured us that the Township is doing everything in its power to help local businesses and that the re-opening process would not be difficult. He was not kidding! The Township streamlined the process that took less than 48 hours from request to approval to reopen. Not having offered outdoor seating prior to now, we constructed our outside dining area with capacity for 80 patrons in six days. We were able to open Monday because of the proactive people dedicated to making Freehold Township a better place to live and operate a business. Every member of the Township’s governing body, as well as the administration, planning, zoning, and construction departments to the parks and recreation department, police, and emergency responders – truly care about this community and New Jersey. Surviving in business during COVID-19 will be one of my greatest business challenges, but I am inspired by the light at the end of the tunnel that Freehold Township has helped me see. And, I would be remiss if I did not also thank Senator Vin Gopal who is working tirelessly for all people of Freehold Township and the other towns in his district to re-open for business. Thank You Freehold Township and Senator Gopal.
Bob McDaid
President and CEO
iPlay America, Game Time Bar & Grill and Topgolf Swing Suite
Freehold Township, NJ