Manasquan officials say that the warmer weather has brought on a spike in COVID-19 cases, prompting them to shut down the summer recreation program.

The town saw 26 new cases in one week, with several of the cases being employees of the Beach and Recreation departments.

“I want to take a minute to ask the citizens of Manasquan and visitors for help,” Council President Mike Mangan said in a YouTube video. “If we don’t limit the spread of the virus in these programs and in our lives, officials who run different events will have no choice but to shut down, including these programs.”

Of the 26 COVID-19 cases, two are lifeguards and four are employees who check beach badges.

Officials say that changes are coming. On Saturdays and Sundays, the number of badges sold will be capped at 1,000 in order to maintain social distance on the beach. The summer recreation program has been canceled as well.

The cap on badges is winning the approval of Manasquan residents.

“I definitely support it. I think it’s a good idea. July 4 was a little busy. Everyone was respectful, but I think with the outbreak, I definitely think it’s a good idea,” said one resident.

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Manasquan is following a trend in New Jersey. The rate of transmission has risen to 1.1%. Cases are going up, according to Gov. Phil Murphy, because of out-of-state travelers carrying the virus, indoor parties and issues at long-term care facilities.

The governor says that until the number goes down, masks will be mandatory and indoor dining and gyms will remain closed.