Ocean City, Cape May County Beaches Open

OCEAN CITY, NJ — Mayor Leonard Desiderio of Sea Isle City, Mayor Richard Palombo of Upper Township and Mayor Jay Gillian of Ocean City announced Saturday that they will allow access to their beaches for “exercise and active recreation.”

According to a joint statement, the mayors of the three municipalities have been coordinating with a Cape May County task force and other mayors on plans for a safe and gradual reopening of beaches, facilities and businesses as the state continues to take measures to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

• See related article: Info On Ocean City Beach Access Could Come 'Very Soon,' Mayor Says
• See related article: NJ Coronavirus Updates (Here's What You Need To Know)

“Local health professionals have advised that letting people exercise and enjoy outdoor spaces is safe and important for their physical and mental health, provided they avoid dense crowds and close contact with others,” the statement read.

Access to the beaches will be permitted for people engaged in activities such as walking, running, exercising, surfing and fishing. Sunbathing, sitting in chairs, groups of people, group sports and bathing will be prohibited.

Gov. Phil Murphy said on Thursday that he'd be "shocked" if beaches weren't open by Memorial Day, and his administration is ready to provide guidance to towns that are ready to go.

Murphy said beaches can operate in the same way county and state parks have, with limited capacity and social distancing. He said he's been working with Jersey Shore communities on their plans and they have been "great."

• See related article: NJ Beaches May Open Very Soon Amid Coronavirus, Gov. Murphy Says

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