Monterey prepares to close parks and beaches if necessary

MONTEREY, Calif. (KION) Monterey resident, Cort Elmgren, was put on furlough a few weeks ago, but one thing that hasn't changed is his daily walk on the beach.

"It's nice. I can stretch my legs. Everybody keeps their distance," said Elmgren.

Elmgren has been impressed with how other beachgoers have respected social distancing guidelines, but the City of Monterey fears parks and beaches could bring out crowds. Officials are predicting gatherings may ramp up over the holiday weekend.

"Over the next day you'll see signs that clearly state that there are to be no barbecues, gatherings or other unapproved activities due to COVID-19. Folks are to stay six feet apart," said Monterey Assistant City Manager, Nat Rojanasathira.

Across the bay, Santa Cruz County closed their beaches through next Wednesday.

The City of Monterey said they have signs ready and are prepared to close theirs on Saturday, if necessary.

"We will have extra patrols. We will be monitoring the amount of people that are coming to Monterey. We will have our officers in places where we think people might be congregating in large numbers in violation of the shelter in place," said Monterey Chief of Police, Dave Hober.

The Monterey Police Department is prepared to issue citations if people are not keeping their distance.

Exercising and getting some fresh air is still encouraged for locals. Officials said it just needs to be done responsibly. The city recommends that residents stay in their neighborhoods if they chose to go outside.

"If you stay careful and mindful of what you need to do, as distancing is concerned, it should be pretty good," said Elmgren.