The last state from New York to Florida to open their beaches, Virginia, will be allowed to open all of the Virginia Beach City beaches on Friday May 22nd. First Landing State Park will also open. People will be allowed to use the beach for things other than running and fishing. This was announced at the Governor Northam’s press conference today.
However, there will be rules for the beaches. People will not be allowed to play sports, listen to music, or drink alcohol. (I had no idea music and beer could spread coronavirus.) Grouping large umbrellas will also be banned as well as tents. Parking garages and parking lots can fill to only 50% capacity. If the rules are not followed the Governor will reclose the beaches.
Beachgoers must practice social distancing. From The Virginia-Pilot, Governor Northam’s remarks:
“If people swarm these beaches and ignore social distancing rules or the regulations the city has put into place, I will not hesitate to reinstate Phase I restrictions or even the close the beach outright if necessary,” the governor said. “My message to Virginians is this, and it’s very simple: You must be responsible.”
More details here.