Brick Township officials on Friday announced a number of guidelines that will govern beach access at the oceanfront this summer. The guidelines also allow officials to close beach access if social distancing is not adhered-to by beachgoers.
Beach access is currently allowed at the townships ocean beaches, but these rules will govern the formal swimming season, which begins in June. Beaches will be guarded as usual this summer, however guards will also be tasked with ensuring the social distancing guidelines – which will be posted at beaches and focus on providing space between groups and individuals – are being followed. The details on those guidelines are expected to be released by the state in the coming days.
According to officials, lifeguard staff will patrol the beaches on foot throughout the day to ensure the guidelines are being followed. Beach supervisors will monitor the number of people on the beach and in the event social distancing guidelines are becoming difficult to adhere to, they will close access to the beach.
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“While it is important that we continue to be vigilant in the fight against coronavirus, it is also important to bring back some normal aspects of life as safely as we can,” said Ducey. “Going to the beach is something that can be done in such a manner which is why we decided to move forward with opening them on Memorial Day weekend.”
As it currently stands, all three of Brick’s ocean beaches are open, however the Brick Beach III parking lot is undergoing a repaving and parking is only available at Brick Beach I.
Lifeguards will begin guarding beaches on June 15. To prevent overcrowding, the number of daily beach badges sold will be limited. Beach staff will regularly disinfect restrooms, lockers and equipment throughout daily operations.
Season beach badges and parking passes will be on sale beginning Monday, May 11. Badges can be purchased by calling the Recreation Department at 732-262-1044. Season badges can be purchased by check or credit card only. Once payment is received, badges will be available for pick up at the Brick Municipal Building, 401 Chambers Bridge Road, Monday through Friday, 9am – 4pm.
Season beach badges cost $25 until June 15 and $30 on June 16 and later. Season parking passes are $30.
Cash will be accepted for daily badges and daily parking passes at the beaches.
As in years past, residents ages 65 and over by September 1, 2020 and veterans are eligible to receive a free daily wristband at the beaches with a valid ID. Senior season parking passes are $15.
