Many beaches and boardwalks across New Jersey, including Sea Bright, are preparing to open for Memorial Day weekend.

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Under normal circumstances, people would be focusing on what hopefully would be a great summer at the Jersey Shore. Many adjustments are being made as the unofficial start of summer begins, but for the first time, during a pandemic.

Facemasks and social distancing is key, as is knowing which beach towns are offering what amenities.

 

"The county has compiled all of that information into one easy know before you go website with the towns reporting in on what they're doing and what they expect in terms of safety practices," says Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden.

In Sea Bright, swimming is permitted and public restrooms are available, but limited to three people at a time with face coverings suggested.

"We have all eyes on us, the health department at the governor's office, state police, everybody is going to be watching what these beaches are doing for the summer, especially these first few days," says Sea Bright Ocean Rescue Chief Lifeguard Mike Hudson. "This could make or break us."

Mayor Brian Kelly is in his first year in office, and already facing issues no other mayor has been asked to deal with on Memorial Day weekend.

“It will all boil down to our police and our beach employees,” says Mayor Brian Kelly. “They're going to be the ones to take a look. They'll walk around and if they see anything egregious, they'll remind people of what the requirements are because some people will be with their families, but anyone who looks like there with strangers are different people will make sure they stay apart.

But now, coronavirus issues will take center stage as beach towns such as Sea Bright look to get a safe and hopefully solid summer season in.