The boardwalk and beach in Ocean City, Md., will reopen Saturday, WBAL-TV reported.
People will not be required to wear masks, but city council is urging beachgoers to continue to practice social distancing. Restaurants will still be open for carry-out only, and hotels are open only for essential workers, WBAL reported.
“This is a way to give nearby residents more opportunities to get outside and enjoy fresh air, while still adhering to social distancing guidelines and gathering limits,” Ocean City and Gov. Larry Hogan’s office said in a joint statement.
Mayor Rick Meehan said the city will not enforce a locals-only mandate.
Ocean City last week had issued an order extending the closure of its beach and boardwalk until May 15 unless Hogan lifted the statewide stay-at-home order. As of Tuesday morning, that order remained in effect until May 15.
The official declaration of reopening was expected to be released Tuesday, the Salisbury Daily Times reported.
The Times also reported the decision to reopen was made after a scheduled meeting Monday night. It was not among talking points of the meeting.
