Our friends at the Long Beach Post are sharing their content with other newsrooms and they have some important details about today's order:
In an effort to follow the “Stay at Home” order and prevent large groups of people from gathering in public spaces, Long Beach has closed parking lots for parks and beaches.
Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier and El Dorado Nature Center will be closed in addition to all lots at city-owned parks and beaches through April 19.
The effort follows in the steps of Los Angeles, San Diego and Orange counties, who have all moved to close parking lots at parks and beaches.
Additionally, gatherings of any size will be prohibited citywide as part of the updated order. Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia said in a statement:
“We are taking this next step because there are too many people ignoring social distancing while visiting our trails and beaches. You can still ride your bicycle, walk your dog or go for a run, but we’re encouraging folks to avoid any type of gathering and to avoid groups of people. This is a health crisis and we must act now.”
All residents must remain at home, with the following exceptions as long as social distancing of six feet or more is maintained:
- Travel to and from essential businesses.
- Travel to work at, or provide service to, a healthcare operation or essential infrastructure.
- Engage in essential activities such as going to the grocery store or a medical appointment.
- Exercise, jogging and other outdoor activities.
As previously announced, sports facilities at City-owned parks and beaches remain closed.
Residents living in parking impacted neighborhoods who have obtained special permits will still be allowed to park their vehicles at City-owned beach lots as a free alternative through April 30. Vehicles parking in a beach lot without a permit are subject to enforcement. Applications are still being accepted for free permits at the following beach parking lots:
- Granada, 5100 E. Ocean Blvd.
- Junipero, 2100 E. Ocean Blvd.
- Belmont, 3998 E. Allin St.
