Health & Fitness
Northam To Make Announcement On Beaches, Virginia Beach Prepares
With weather getting warmer and Memorial Day approaching, Virginia and local officials are in talks about the status of beaches.
VIRGINIA — State and local officials are in active discussions regarding the reopening of Virginia beaches ahead of Memorial Day weekend. Oceanfront localities aside from Accomack County moved into phase one of Virginia's reopening Friday, but beaches continue to be open for exercise and fishing only.
Gov. Ralph Northam said in a news conference Friday that Virginia Beach, the state's most popular beach destination, is preparing a comprehensive plan on beaches in coordination with state officials. Northam plans to make an announcement early next week regarding beaches.
"The most important thing...is to do it safely, and that's what all of us agree on," said Northam. "We understand it's Memorial [Day] weekend, we understand what's going on with our economy in Virginia, but the top priority for all of us is to do it safely and to make sure that the beachgoers will feel comfortable coming back to our beaches."
Find out what's happening in Falls Churchfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Virginia Beach recruited local event management company IMGoing to manage a beach program with safety measures. That will include cleaning of high-touch surfaces, educating guests physical distancing and reinforcing restrictions through beach ambassadors. Posters with information about the city's safety messaging are also being put up.
"While our beaches are great places to exercise, we want people to be able to visit and just sit, relax and enjoy the sounds of the ocean," said Deputy City Manager Ron Williams in a statement. "To do that, we are focusing on ways to make it safe for our residents, visitors and the thousands of frontline staff who are waiting to welcome everyone to Virginia Beach."
Find out what's happening in Falls Churchfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
According to WTOP, beach ambassadors will encourage beachgoers to practice physical distancing and avoid gatherings over 10 people. They are set to start training and familiarizing themselves with the beaches over the weekend.
Other common destinations for DC area vacationers have announced reopening policies in recent days. Ocean City, Maryland short-term rental restrictions at 5 p.m. on Thursday, May 14. Localities in North Carolina's Outer Banks will allow visitors beginning Saturday, May 16. Virginia's state parks are open for daytime activities.
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