Gov. Phil Murphy: NJ Beaches May Open Very Soon Amid Coronavirus

UPDATE: Gov. Phil Murphy announced on Thursday, May 14 that New Jersey beaches can reopen and he issued guidelines and rules amid the coronavirus outbreak. He said they'll be open for Memorial Day weekend. Read more: Gov. Murphy: NJ Beaches Will Reopen Amid Coronavirus Crisis

NEW JERSEY – Gov. Phil Murphy said on Thursday, May 7 that he'd be "shocked" if beaches weren't open by Memorial Day, and his administration is ready to provide guidance to towns that are ready to go.

"I will be shocked if our beaches are not open but with very specific guidance," Murphy told NJTV on Thursday.

During his Friday news conference, however, Murphy warned that if the curve of cases, which has been on a downward trend, "turn against us there's no way can responsiblity take a step like opening beaches."

Murphy said beaches can operate in the same way county and state parks have, with limited capacity and social distancing. He said he's been working with Jersey Shore communities on their plans and they have been "great."

"You should expect that we will give guidance on beaches before Memorial Day," he said.

As for social distancing, Murphy said his administration will likely recommend: "Don't be a knucklehead. Stay away from each other."

During the interview, Murphy was discussing which areas of New Jersey's economy could reopen first, and he was asked directly if beaches would be open by Memorial Day.

The update comes as the number of coronavirus cases have risen to 133,635, and 8,801 people have died. Read more: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know

Indeed, at least 10 towns have developed plans for a slow, but full reopening of their beaches by Memorial Day weekend. Read more: Jersey Shore Beaches Plan To Open Amid Coronavirus: Here's Where

During his Thursday news conference, Murphy said the boardwalks and beaches have been "historically under the domain of a local decision."

However, one of the restrictions that could be imposed, Murphy said, would be restricting parking to 50 percent of capacity.

Murphy seemed resistant to the idea of requiring masks, saying: "Face coverings are going to be an even bigger challenge on the beach."

Murphy addressed the beach issue at 19:30 here:

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