Charlotte County beaches to reopen Monday in coordination with Sarasota County

Reporter: Erika Jackson
Published: Updated:
Beaches in Charlotte County closed due to coronavirus concerns. (Credit: WINK News)

The last beach in Southwest Florida to close will now be the first to reopen.

Charlotte County announced Tuesday it would reopen beaches starting Monday. Restrooms will remain closed, and parking will be free.

They said the decision is in coordination with Sarasota County to the north.

Brian Gleason, the communications manager for Charlotte County said, “We think that folks getting out there and getting some exercise and getting some sun helps their overall frame of mind.”

In Sarasota County, Commissioner Nancy Detert said, “We’ve already heard from Charlotte County. …Which is very helpful down in south county because half of Manasota beach is Charlotte County and half in Sarasota.”

Sarasota commissioners unanimously approved to reopen beaches Monday with restrictions and keeping parking lots closed.

“We try to coordinate those types of closures and openings with neighboring counties,” Gleason added, “so we don’t get an influx of people from one county to the other to use amenities that are open or close.”

Deputies will continue to enforce social distancing rules at beaches and parks,
but the county expects beachgoers to follow CDC guidelines.

Gleason said he thinks that “people are going to be responsible and they’re going to enjoy the beach and stay safe and healthy.”

Charlotte County also plans to reopen sports fields and dog parks on Friday. However, no organized games or activities will be allowed.

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