Coronavirus: Beaches to remain open, area mayors say

The mayors of Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach signed a Declaration of Emergency to flatten the curve of COVID-19.

The City has canceled all public meeting and city-sponsored activities until further notice. City Hall and the beaches will remain open.

“We had people come in for TPC so we’re just making the best of the situation,” Lindsay Waters said. “We got a little stir crazy at the house yesterday. So we had to get out and get some fresh air today.”

After major events were canceled due to coronavirus concerns, large crowds took to the beaches instead Saturday afternoon.

The City has encouraged nearby restaurant, bars and stores to double up on cleaning procedures.

The beaches mayors asked the public to avoid large crowds, wash hands frequently and use plenty of hand sanitizer.

“We just be honest with them, and they should wash their hands and stay safe,” Leigh Linder said about her children. “Educate them on the situation, just be proactive.”

Police said four lifeguards will patrol the beaches, which is normal for March. Police said their operations will continue as normal.

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