The City Council is exploring ways to keep beaches open while also maintaining social distancing, such as counting the number of people allowed onto a beach.

Council Speaker Corey Johnson on Tuesday said while he does not want to undermine public health efforts, he is concerned people will flock to beaches with the warm weather regardless of he shutdown.

Johnson said, with playgrounds and public pools closed, there needs to be outdoor areas where New Yorkers can go.

Speaking to Inside City Hall, Mayor Bill de Blasio said he was open to reopening beaches in the summer if the city makes significant progress with the coronavirus pandemic.

De Blasio on Monday announced a plan to close some city streets to traffic and open them to pedestrians in need of more space to socially distance. After originally resisting the plan, he said he approved the “Shared Streets” proposal because people will head outside as the weather gets warmer even with most of the city shut down.

------

Looking for an easy way to learn about the issues affecting New York City?

Listen to our "Off Topic/On Politics" podcast: Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Stitcher | RSS

-----

 

FURTHER CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE

 

What to Do If You Test Positive for COVID-19

 

How Hospitals Protect Against the Spread of Coronavirus

 

Coronavirus Likely Spreads Without Symptoms

 

Coronavirus: The Fight to Breathe

 

Cuomo Orders Non-Essential Workers to Stay Home

 

NYC Businesses to Be Fined If Caught Price Gouging Face Masks

 

MTA Crews Cleaning to Prevent Coronavirus Spread

Cuomo Granted Broad New Powers as New York Tackles Coronavirus