The Big Apple kicks off a warm season without major restrictions at its beach resorts, with a good forecast for a sunny weekend. Sufficient lifeguards confirmed at all resorts. Governor announces new technology to monitor the presence of sharks in the coastline
This ‘Memorial Day’ weekend the 14 miles of beaches located in the Big Apple will have their official opening this Saturday by the New York City Parks Department (NYC Parks) This first big bell of summer brings good news: Pleasant weather and very few restrictions are expected at public beach resorts.
“Beaches will officially open to the public with lifeguards every day, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The beaches will officially open to the public with lifeguards every day, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.. And they will close on Sunday, September 10. Outside of these hours, swimming is strictly prohibited,” said Izzy Verdery, spokesperson for NYC Parks.
Although some reports suggested that the City is facing a shortage of lifeguards this season, El Diario confirmed that this trend will not affect lifeguard and rescue efforts this weekend. It is anticipated that there could be some difficulties with the opening of public pools next June.
Almost no restrictions
For the second year in a row, the only beach resort where there will be some restrictions, in some sections of the coast, will be Rockaway Beach in Queens, although in general all sites and entertainment facilities will be available there.
In fact, visitors will notice some improvements in the areas that are still recovering from the battering of Hurricane Sandy in 2012.
Sections of 10 to 15 blocks of the beach between Beach 116th and Beach 149th Streets will be closed again this summer.
The construction plan will close areas on an ongoing basis during this hot season, in specific sections, but not significantly, as to “spoil the party” for those who want to visit this beach resort.
The changes and access closures to portions of this beach are specifically due to the $336 million Atlantic Coast Resiliency Project, which began in 2020 and is scheduled to run through 2026.
The work, which is currently mobilizing large machinery and rock material, responds to the need to address severe erosion and coastal storm flooding, which has been exacerbated by climate change, at one of New York City’s most popular beaches.
The project consists of 14 new stone jetty structures, rehabilitation of five existing ones, construction of a reinforced dune system and sand restoration on the Atlantic Ocean side of the Rockaway peninsula.
“Most of our beaches will open this 2023 season with retrofits, new amenities, modernization of public spaces, with the criteria that thousands of people will be able to enjoy safe spaces,” said a spokesperson for NYC Parks.
Take care of your children!
Most of the incidents reported in New York City’s public parks this past summer were linked to missing child alarms amid the crowds of sunbathers.
“In order for our families to enjoy their stay anywhere, the first thing we need to warn and remember is something that may seem logical, but is not always so: Don’t neglect or lose sight of your children for a second when in crowded parks!
Fortunately, no fatalities were recorded last summer, only false alarms and minutes of panic for parents and caregivers.
Weather: heat and moderate swell
Sunny skies this Saturday and Sunday in the Big Apple will be combined with pleasant temperatures at least for beachgoers, with temperatures in the mid-70s each day, according to the National Weather Service forecast.
Next Monday is also projected to be a warm day, with a high of 77 degrees.
The “high surf” risk for this Saturday is listed as “moderate” for Coney Island and Rockaway’s Queens beaches.
Shark Warning
Meanwhile, Gov. Kathy Hochul on Friday encouraged New Yorkers and visitors from neighboring states to safely enjoy state parks, beaches and historic sites throughout New York this Memorial Day weekend.
Many state park beaches will open for the first time this season.
She advised New Yorkers to follow proper safety precautions near the water, including warnings to stay safe from sharks and other potentially dangerous marine life.
“New York has some of the best beaches on the East Coast. Starting this weekend is the perfect time to get out and enjoy the natural splendor of our state,” he commented.
This week the state government announced that state parks have implemented additional surveillance technology this summer, including protecting visitors from negative interactions with sharks.
Ten drones will be added this hot season, doubling the eight currently in operation.
Through a release the state government provided details on a new drone assigned to state park police, which features a laser range finder and high quality cameras to allow for nighttime surveillance and patrols in adverse weather conditions.
State park environmental educators conduct public outreach about shark habitats for people at Jones Beach, Robert Moses and Sunken Meadow this summer.
Most state park beaches and pools across the state will be open just this weekend. Hours vary by park.
Be aware before you head to the beach:
- Full details and warnings before visiting a beach in NYC can be found on the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation’s nycgovparks.org website.
- Register online at Notify NYC, visit the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s (DOHMH) NYC Area Beaches page to get warnings about water quality or closures for any eventuality.
- You can also text BEACH to 55676 to receive real-time opening, closing and water quality information.
- NYC Parks stresses that it is not worth the risk to swim in restricted areas or when lifeguards are not on duty. The first time you enter the water, approach or walk in, do not jump in or dive in. Be careful not to swim when you are tired. Never use alcohol while swimming, boating or supervising children near water.
- Check the status of the park or spa in New York State on the New York Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation website: https://www.parks.ny.gov/