Gov. John Carney admits to being concerned about the decision by the mayor of Ocean City, MD. to reopen the beach and boardwalk on Saturday.
Carney said at a press briefing that Delaware beaches could reopen toward the end of the month, but added that community spread of the disease remains a major issue.
The biggest concern comes from mass gatherings that are part of the beach culture.
Carney said he has been having conversations with the administration of Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, but added that Delaware is no longer “on the same page” with its beachfront neighbor.
The Ocean City beach opening is not limited to Ocean City or Maryland residents, according to remarks from Mayor Rick Meehan who according to published reports indicated that no enforcement efforts would be made regarding out-of-staters.
Maryland, like Delaware, still has a stay at home order that would at least technically limit a beach opening to Ocean City area residents.
State Division of Health Director Dr. Karyl Rattay said social distancing remains important in limiting the spread of the disease, which has seen an outbreak in Sussex County. State health officials had last week discouraged from second homeowners, citing the outbreak.
Carney took note of a letter from the mayors of beach communities in Sussex County that pointed out the differences among towns. For example, Bethany Beach and Rehoboth have boardwalks that encourage crowds, while other towns have stretches of the beach only.
Beach town mayors and business people have become increasingly concerned about delayed openings of businesses and beaches.
According to Carney, the state never imposed an outright beach ban, although Rehoboth Beach and other municipalities went further.
Individual surf fishing has also been allowed, although Carney seemed to indicate the program has not been especially successful in terms of social distancing.
