Broward County Beaches Reopen; Miami-Dade Expected To Reopen Next

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL —After being shut down for 10 weeks, Fort Lauderdale beaches reopened Tuesday to sunny skies and people eager to once again dip their toes into the turquoise waters.

Sunbathers will have to wait a little longer to stretch out their towels and bask in the South Florida sunshine. The beaches are only open for exercise but not yet open for sunbathing, picnicking or sitting. The beaches are also not yet open for volleyball or other sports.

"We've got to continue to follow the rules that we set forth," warned Broward County Mayor Dale V.C. Holness. "We need to continue to wear a mask, wash your hands frequently. We hope that our efforts will continue to allow us to open more of Broward County as we protect the health and well-being of our people and restart our economy."

Nearby Miami-Dade County beaches are expected to reopen on June 1. See: Memorial Day Weekend 2020: What Florida Beaches Are Open, Closed

Zoo Miami is also scheduled to reopen on June 1. It will reopen for members on Wednesday.

"It a glorious day here on the beach isn't it," observed Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean J. Trantalis on Tuesday. The Broward County reopening also includes hotels, gyms and other businesses.

Social distancing and facial covering requirements remain in effect for Broward beaches. Beachgoers must maintain a 6-foot separation from other people except in the case of members of the same household or groups. At no time may groups exceed 10 people. Umbrellas, canopies, chairs, loungers and coolers are not permitted on Broward beaches.

Commercial gyms and fitness centers, including dance, martial arts, yoga, spinning and personal training studios can also reopen in Broward with adherence to social distancing guidelines.

"With the rate of infection from COVID-19 on a decline we gather here to announce not only the reopening of our beaches but also our gyms and our hotels," Trantalis told reporters. "The time has come for us to begin restoring the amenities and businesses that keep our economy running and contribute to the great quality of life that we've all come to enjoy here in South Florida."

Hotel and motel staff must wear facial coverings and gloves for all customer-facing activities. Guests must wear facial coverings in all common areas. Ballrooms and other special function areas of hotels remain closed in Broward. Vacation rentals are also open, but only for essential lodgers.

Broward businesses are "strongly encouraged" to continue remote operations whenever possible, and to continue to allow employees to telecommute. Employees that return to offices must follow social distancing requirements.

Broward County officials said they are are monitoring the coronavirus outbreak to identify any possible hot spots.

"Law enforcement and code enforcement agencies are authorized to enforce the requirements of the emergency order," Broward County officials said. "Failure to comply can result in civil or criminal penalties, including fines, imprisonment or both."

To anonymously report suspected violations, visit MyBroward.Broward.org, or call 3-1-1 or 954-831-4000.