Week 8: Reopening the state becomes a flashpoint

Gov. Carney says benchmarks must be reached to slow spread of COVID-19

The Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk and beach remain closed even as Ocean City allows access starting the weekend of May 9-10. RON MACARTHUR PHOTOS

Ron MacArthur

May 8, 2020

Nearing two months into the state of emergency, protesters take to Legislative Mall in downtown Dover on May 1 and downstate Republican legislators demand that Gov. John Carney reopen the state.

Plans to reopen are beginning to emerge.

Ocean City, Md., officials announce the beach and boardwalk will reopen starting Saturday, May 9. However, most businesses and all attractions remain closed. Rehoboth and Dewey officials remain firm that beaches will remain closed.

During his May 5 press briefing, Gov. John Carney announces some easing of restrictions to allow nonessential businesses to conduct some business. Hair salons can open to serve essential workers only under strict sanitation guidelines. Also, the following small retail businesses can offer curbside service as long as social distancing can be followed: clothing, shoe, music, hobby, office supply, sporting goods, book, gift, rental and used merchandise stores and shops. Employees required to work because of the changes are permitted to use childcare services, provided neither parent works at home or they do not have alternative care.

Second Street in downtown Lewes is nearly empty at midday on Saturday, May 2, normally a time when the street would be busy. Starting May 8, some retail businesses can begin curbside service.

Schell Brothers Homes has put up several inspirational billboards along the Route 1 corridor.

Cape Henlopen State Park beaches are open to people who are exercising, walking dogs and surf fishing.

Face coverings are required in state parks when a person comes within 6 feet of another person who is not somebody in their own household.

Vehicles use a crossover to drive onto the beach in Cape Henlopen State Park. Surf fishing, with several restrictions, is allowed.

Pink flamingos with masks help to thank Beebe Healthcare workers across from the hospital on the grounds of Bethel United Methodist Church in Lewes.

Surf fishermen practice social distancing as they enjoy a warm spring day. According to park regulations, while surf fishing is permitted, tanning, playing on the beach or in the water, reading and swimming are not allowed either with or without a surf permit.

Two fishermen walk onto the Cape Henlopen State Park fishing pier, which remains open.

Even though the traditional spring Lewes British Motorcar Show was canceled this year, car owners are not deterred as they take a ride May 2 on Savannah Road in Lewes.

With warm, sunny conditions on April 2, surf fishing vehicles line up along the Atlantic Ocean shoreline in Cape Henlopen State Park.

Working out of HOB Elementary School, staff continue to provide meals to children throughout the Cape Henlopen School District either at the school or via bus routes.

A sign at Hideout Arcade Bar and Grille along Route 1 near Midway states what a lot of people are thinking.

Pink flamingos thanking Beebe Healthcare workers in all fields, from A to Z, line a flower bed at Bethel United Methodist Church in Lewes.

Funland, a Rehoboth Beach icon, had to defer on its traditional Mothers Day weekend opening for only the third time in its long history on the Boardwalk. The two other delays were due to construction.

Week 8: Reopening the state becomes a flashpoint

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