Duval beaches and parks now reopen with limitations

Jacksonville FL — Friday, beaches and parks in Duval County partially reopened, so people can get out their homes and exercise. We reported Thursday when it was announced by the City of Jacksonville that they would reopen. We're told the parks will have normal hours, but the beaches will have abbreviated hours. They will only be open from 6AM until 11AM then again from 5PM until 8PM for activities such as walking, bike, fishing, running, swimming or surfing. In addition, there are certain items you can't bring with you to the beach. The city says items like coolers, towels, blankets, chairs, coolers and grills are not allowed. Also, they say sunbathing is not permitted. CDC guidelines of no more than 10 people in a group and social distancing still apply.

Jacksonville Beach Mayor Charlie Latham says as long the people follow the rules and guidelines the beaches will stay open.

“How long this beach remains open is gonna be 100% determined by the beach goers.” Latham says.

He says he wants people to be able to use the beach comfortably, but officials have no problem with shutting down the beach again. Latham says they are relaxing their dog walking hours. He says anytime the beach is open for people, it will be available for dogs too, they just have to be on a leash. As far as enforcement in Jax Beach, Latham says they will tell the people of the rules, then they’ll warn those people and finally additional action will be taken if necessary.

The City of Jacksonville says if you want to head to the beach,  public parking will only be available west of 1st street. Public parking lots and end zones will be closed east of 1st street.

Now that the beaches have reopened, business owners in the area say they now hoping the extra foot traffic will lead to more business. One Atlantic Beach restaurant owner, who spoke with our news partner Action News Jax, says he saw a big drop in business and now he’s hopeful he will see an increase in business.

“I absolutely see that more people will come out, I think business will increase and I think that from an economic standpoint it will be good for everybody out here.” Aaron Levine says.

He says he hopes additional steps taken will lead to an increase in business and help prevent a spike in cases.