Week 10: Beaches will open for Memorial Day weekend

With a June 1 date for Delaware to move to Phase 1 for reopening, Gov. John Carney announced that beaches can reopen to beach-related activities at 5 p.m., Friday, May 22, under a strict set of guidelines, including the possible use of beach ambassadors to educate beachgoers on social-distancing guidelines. Community pools are permitted to open at the same time at 20 percent capacity.

Delaware’s mandatory 14-day quarantine for out-of-state travelers and ban on short-term rentals will remain in effect. Non-Delawareans who have been in Delaware for at least 14 days will be permitted to use the beaches.

Strict social distancing and hygiene requirements will accompany the reopening of Delaware’s beaches. Beachgoers must maintain at least 6 feet of distance between themselves and anyone outside their household. Face coverings must be worn on the boardwalk and are encouraged on the beach. Restaurants and bars are still limited to delivery and takeout services only.

In addition, current surf-fishing restrictions on the number of individuals allowed per vehicle will be lifted May 22; all individuals in the vehicle must be from the same household.

On May 18, Carney announced that churches – many closed for two months – can reopen at 30 percent of fire code capacity. High-risk members, including anyone who is sick or over 65 years old, should not attend. Anyone 13 years or older must wear a face covering and strict sanitizing measures must be completed.