Sarasota beaches will open Monday amid COVID-19. It’s only for ‘essential activity’
While Manatee County beaches remain closed at the recommendation of public safety officials, the Sarasota Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to open their beaches for “limited use.”
Restrictions remain in place, however, and the beaches will not be available until Monday, April 27. County officials say congregating will not be allowed and visitors must follow social distancing guidelines.
There will be no access to parking lots, concession stands or playgrounds. Visitors will also be prohibited from lounging with beach supplies, such as coolers, umbrellas, towels and chairs.
Commissioner Nancy Detert made a motion to reopen the beaches with those restrictions in place during Wednesday morning’s meeting.
“I think with this motion it’s really codifying what’s going on. We all know that we can go down to the beach right this very minute and see people walking on the beach, probably swimming, but in a socially responsible manner. We’re just allowing that privilege for everyone else,” Detert said.
“I think it’s pretty clear that what we’re doing here is opening up the beach for essential activities, which is the governor’s order,” Commissioner Christian Ziegler added.
The city of Sarasota is keeping Lido Beach closed, according to a press release. City Manager Tom Barwin suggested that the beach won’t reopen until there is a clear indication that the virus outbreak is under control.
“Local city decisions will be guided by science, data and credible public health advice. Lessening restrictions too early, especially with limited local testing, could backfire,” Barwin said in a prepared statement.
“National medical experts have advised that lifting restrictions on social gatherings should only be considered following two weeks of no increases, and preferably declines, in new COVID-19 cases. We are not experiencing that in the north end of the county,“ he continued.
While Sarasota and Manatee initially announced the closure of their beaches simultaneously, Manatee County’s public beaches remain closed.
This story was originally published April 22, 2020 at 11:57 AM.
