FMB city leaders vote to reopen beaches to all visitors; Restaurants at 25 percent capacity

Town of Fort Myers Beach leaders voted to reopen the beach to all visitors starting Saturday, but it appears they’re already open Friday.

“The order was for tomorrow,” Mayor Ray Murphy said. “And, if some of them are opened now and they’re out on the beach, so be it.”

The town’s leaders also approved opening restaurants and stores at 25% capacity starting Monday.

“I left my house at eight o’clock this morning to get out here,” David Bjork said.

Beaches, parking, parks, Bay Oaks outside area, Newton Park and restrooms will all reopen as part of the decision by the town.

“It’s been pretty rough being quarantined this whole time not being able to work, not being able to go out,” Nicolas Hurlock said. “So it’s good to get a little sun.”

Wearing masks on the beach is optional, but no groups larger than 10 people are allowed to gather in one place.

“Oh, I was ecstatic,” Vickie Manade said. “I was here at 9 a.m. this morning, so excited.”