All beaches in the city of Galveston will be closed to visitors this July Fourth weekend in response to a recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the area, city officials announced on Wednesday.
Beginning on Friday, July 3, at 5 a.m. until Monday, July 6, at 12:01 a.m., Galveston beaches will be closed to all traffic. Parking will also be blocked on both sides of the Galveston seawall.
The decision came after much deliberation, officials said, adding that they feel it is in the best interest of residents and visitors to close beaches.
The decision follows the guidance of medical professionals and comes after Texas Medical Center hospitals entered into Phase 2 surge plans for ICU capacity in neighboring Harris County.
"At this time, based on the current health situation and the guidance of medical professionals, I do not feel it is prudent or responsible to have thousands of visitors descending on Galveston beaches," Mayor Jim Yarbrough said. "Galveston has and always will be a welcoming destination, but the ongoing public health crisis demands our attention and response. We have to prioritize health and safety."
Read more from the city on the announcement in the post below:
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