Heres how police at Jacksonville-area beaches are preparing for July 4 crowds
However, the pandemic doesnt mean crowds are expected stay away from popular spots including Jacksonville-area beaches, which saw a sharp rise in cases during June. Coronavirus concerns prompted Jacksonville Beach City Council members to cancel Independence Day fireworks, worried about attracting to many people to view the show. Supervisors at all three police departments -- Neptune Beach, Atlantic Beach and Jacksonville Beach -- said all officers will be on duty, and that the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office will send officers for additional support. We experience a large, large increase in pedestrian and bicycle traffic, said Neptune Beach Police Commander Michael Key. The small city of Neptune Beach is among the hotspots for beachgoers, partygoers and large crowds.
Some Jacksonville Beach-area bars & restaurants remain closed for cleanings
Several popular bars and restaurants in the beaches community remained closed Thursday for cleanings due to the threat of COVID-19. Some spots have closed their doors after employees tested positive, while others have simply closed up as a precaution. Seven employees there tested positive, while 42 were negative. The pub reopened Wednesday after a deep cleaning. Just down the road, The Shim Sham Room and Hoptinger remained closed Thursday.
Half of Neptune Beach police force in quarantine; 2 officers test positive for COVID-19
NEPTUNE BEACH, Fla. Two officers of the Neptune Beach Police Department have tested positive for COVID-19, and another nine officers are in quarantine as a precaution, a commander of the department told News4Jax on Thursday. There are a total of 22 officers in the department. According to police, the nine officers came in contact with the affected officers. Commander Michael Key said it is not impacting the departments ability to patrol and respond to emergencies. He said all 32 staff members have been tested for the virus.