Long Beach Township Creates 9 PM Curfew For Youth

LONG BEACH TOWNSHIP, NJ — Long Beach Township officials released two executive orders Tuesday: One imposes a curfew on people 17 and under. The other outlines times in which outdoor dining and related music must end each night.

No one 17 and under is allowed in a public area — including streets, walkways, alleys, parks and beaches — between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by their parent or legal guardian.

The youth-curfew order says that "recent events have established that juveniles are now congregating in large numbers on the streets after 9:00 p.m. in a manner that violates the aforesaid social distancing requirements and in a manner that is detrimental to public health."

It wasn't immediately clear how prevalent an issue this has been in Long Beach Township. State officials recently expressed concerns an increase in cases among young people, but they focused largely on adults ages 18-29.

In April, individuals between 18 and 29 years old made up 12 percent of COVID-19 cases in the state. Now, in June, that number has risen to make up 22 percent of cases. Read more: 'Concerning Pattern' As NJ COVID-19 Cases Rise Among Young People

The restaurant order — also signed by Mayor Joseph H. Mancini and Police Chief Anthony Deely — says all restaurants shall cease seating by 9 p.m. and close outdoor seating by 10 p.m. Music to accompany outdoor dining is only allowed from 4-8 p.m., and restaurants must close for takeout by 11 p.m.

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The orders come as Long Beach Township resumes certain summer activities. Fire Pit Fridays — free live music on the beach — will begin this week and take place from 7:30-9:30 p.m. at 68th Street Beach.

Patch asked officials why Fire Pit Fridays music can exceed the 8 p.m. deadline imposed on restaurants. This story will be updated with any response.

Read more: NJ Coronavirus, Reopen Updates: Here's What You Need To Know

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