BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. – Broward County reopened public beaches at sunrise on Tuesday with a few restrictions amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Authorities will not be allowing sunbathing or lounging. Group gatherings of more than 10 people will also be prohibited.
The barricades were removed along Fort Lauderdale Beach at 6:30 a.m. Tuesday, and people wasted no time swimming, kayaking or simply walking to the shoreline to dip their toes into the water.
“I’ve been waiting a while to come to the beach, put my foot in the sand and get in the water a little bit -- at least just feel the wind,” Princess Archer said. “It’s been a bummer that we haven’t been able to do that.”
Broward County officials and Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis held a press conference Tuesday morning along Las Olas Boulevard to discuss the reopening process.
“This beach behind us is an important symbol to reopening our community,” Trantalis said. “It is one of our true gems and belongs to the people to use.”
However, Trantalis said restrictions at the beach are necessary.
FLORIDA BEACHES
In Daytona Beach, hundreds of rebels attended the “Orlando invades Daytona” beach party during the pandemic. There were fights and a shooting that left at least two injured, according to Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood.
Daytona Beach Police Chief Craig Capri said he was upset at a man in a car who used the sunroof to stand up and throw cash at the crowd for a rap video.
“We got the coronavirus still going around and people not practicing social distancing, but I am not the social distancing police,” Capri said. “It’s not my job.”
HOTELS
Broward County is also allowing hotels to reopen on Tuesday, as well as gyms and fitness centers.
Hotel managers have had some time to reorganize during the quarantine and employees must wear facial coverings, along with guests who are in common areas.
Staff members are now conducting temperature checks and using UV wands to kill bacteria in common areas.
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