Christie: More Homes With Power, More Schools Open - Philadelphia News, Weather and Sports from WTXF FOX 29

Gov. Chris Christie says New Jersey's recovery efforts are making progress, as the number of homes without power is down significantly and nearly half of the school districts are now open.

During a Monday afternoon storm briefing, nearly a week after Superstorm Sandy hit, Christie told a crowd of reporters and Monmouth County residents that, as of Monday, 765,000 homes are without power, down from 2.76 million when the storm hit.

Christie also says 250 districts are now open to students, accounting for 40 percent of the districts statewide.

As for gasoline, Christie said he will continue the odd/even system he recently put into effect for northern counties. The governor did emphasize, however, that New Jersey was not running out of gas and that there was no shortage of supply.

Earlier Monday, Christie said he ordered 10 National Guard trucks to deliver 50,000 gallons worth of gasoline to the Monmouth County area.

While many residents have been able to return to their homes, residents of some barrier island communities are still waiting.

The governor says he isn't allowing residents to return due to the significant damage to the area.

Road crews are working around the clock to clear and repair Rt. 35. However, areas around Point Pleasant Beach to Seaside Heights are not yet ready for residents to return, Christie said.

The New Jersey governor assured residents the state was making progress, but admitted, "The challenges here are extraordinary."

Christie also touched on "Jersey toughness," telling the crowd "America couldn't take New Jersey toughness before this. After this, we're going to be hell on wheels, everybody."