VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. -- If you’re hoping to use the Memorial Day weekend to swim, surf, sunbathe, or fish, you’re in luck. The Virginia Beach Oceanfront was set to open -- with restrictions -- on Friday
Virginia Governor Ralph Northam said the beach would be open for recreational use and with social distancing in mind. That means certain activities and items would not be allowed.
Those activities and items include:
- Group sports
- Alcohol
- Speakers
- Tents
- Groupings of umbrellas
He said since social distancing should still be a priority, parking in the area was set to be capped at 50 percent capacity, and beach ambassadors would be out making sure people are following the restrictions, and staying six feet apart.
"Let me be clear, these rules must be followed," said Northam. "If people ignore social distancing and swarm these beaches or the regulations the city has put into place, I will not hesitate to reinstate phase one restrictions or even close the beach outright if necessary."
Governor Northam also said there would be enhanced cleaning schedules with cleaning staff wiping and spraying down high touch surfaces.
"My message to Virginians is this, and it's very simple. You must be responsible," Northam said.
Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer also urged beachgoers to take restrictions seriously.
"Let's remember this is short term inconvenience for long term gain," said Dyer. "We have to ensure that we are safe, the people that want to come to our beaches are safe and welcome. And we will do that. And let’s always remember that we all are one day closer to this terrible pandemic behind us than we were yesterday."
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