Long Island beaches will be open for Memorial Day weekend
Though the coronavirus pandemic is not over and Long Island and New York City are not hitting all the benchmarks to reopen in comparison to other regions or parts of upstate, Gov. Andrew Cuomo will allow beaches to open next Friday, May 22, in time for the Memorial Day weekend, he said at his daily briefing on May 15.
Nassau County beaches have been closed since Cuomo issued the first New York Pause order in late March, shutting down most businesses and public places in an effort to slow down the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.
State Sen. Todd Kaminsky, a Democrat who represents the Five Towns, was part of a bipartisan group of senators who called for regional planning. “While I am pleased at the news that beaches can be open next weekend, if New York City beaches are closed next weekend, it will create a chaotic and untenable situation on Long Island,” Kaminsky stated in a news release.
He added, “For the good and health of all New Yorkers, I call on Mayor [Bill] de Blasio to ensure that New York City residents have access to their beaches for Memorial Day weekend. “It is critical that all jurisdictions coordinate their openings so that beach-attendance can be managed in a healthy and safe manner.”
Woodmere resident Mitch Greebel said that the coronavirus lockdown did not put a crimp in his beach going. “I’ve been going since the lockdown so there is no reason to stop,” he said. “Outdoors and plenty of Vitamin D is needed by everyone.”
Not only are the beaches a large part of the Long Island summerscape, so are the beach clubs. On the opposite end of the spectrum Hewlett resident David Friedman said this is the first time in more than three decades he will not be lounging at a club. “I canceled the beach club for the first time in over 30 years,” he said. “I don't think it's workable or enjoyable with all the restrictions needed for safety. Very upsetting.”
The governor said, however, local towns and cities can decide to extend the order barring access to beaches beyond that date, if they deem it necessary.
The reopening of beaches will take place in tandem with New Jersey, Delaware and Connecticut, which has already reopened certain of its beaches.
On May 14, the governor continued the New York Pause order through May 28, with the option and ability to extend enforcement of the order through June 13. The order applies to five of the state's 10 regions, including Long Island and New York City.
On May 1, 13 town supervisors from across Long Island gathered to begin developing plans to open their recreational facilities, including beaches.
“The theme of our discussion was that the Covid-19 pandemic does not follow town borders, and it’s necessary to collaborate on our best practices and strategies for summer programs and services," Hempstead Town Supervisor Donald Clavin said. "Working together as a team and maintaining communication will be key to providing the safest environment.”
