OCEAN CITY, Md. — Ocean City, Maryland’s beach and boardwalk remains closed through at least May 15 or when Gov. Larry Hogan lifts his stay at home order, town officials said Wednesday.
In addition, rental restrictions are extended through May 22. The inlet parking lot also remains closed through May 15.
"Gov. Hogan’s Maryland Strong: Roadmap to Recovery laid out a path to gradually and responsibly reopen the economy, while also protecting the health and safety of our residents," Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan said. "The plan intends to move rapidly, but not recklessly. It is important that Ocean City mirror these actions to help avoid any set back in the progress we have made in our community and across the state."
Last month, Ocean City officials closed the beaches after large crowds were reported during the first few weeks of the coronavirus pandemic in Maryland.
Officials said that restaurants on the boardwalk, however, could stay open for carry-out service only.
Only residents who reside within the corporate limits of the Town of Ocean are allowed to walk their dogs or exercise on the beach or Boardwalk in groups of no more than two adults and children at any time, officials said.
"Although it has not been easy, we believe these restrictions have been successfully slowing the spread of the virus. If we all continue to work together over the next few weeks, hopefully, we will be welcoming everyone back sooner rather than later," Meehan said.
Maryland has announced 736 new cases, 117 new hospitalizations, and 56 additional deaths due to COVID-19. The total number of cases in Maryland is now 20,849. Officials said about 1,300 people have recovered and been released from isolation.
What precautions should you take?
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Wear a mask if you have to make an essential trip outside
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol if soap and water are unavailable.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Reasons to leave your home under stay-at-home order:
- Grocery store trips
- Medical visits or trips to the pharmacy
- Travel to your essential job
- Exercise such as walks, hikes or bike rides
Commonly reported symptoms of COVID-19 infection include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Pneumonia
If you are sick or suspect you are infected, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends taking the followings steps:
- Stay home except to get medical care
- Avoid public areas, including work or school
- Avoid public transportation
- Separate yourself from other people and animals in your home
- Contact your doctor via telemedicine for more guidance
Check the status of the virus in your state with your state health department's websites by tapping below: