Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has announced a multi-state agreement to reopen public and private beaches with certain restrictions in place effective, Friday, May 22.

This approach will better align the states' policies ahead of the summer months, said a press release from the governor’s office.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, and Delaware Governor John Carney made similar announcements in their states.

"With Memorial Day weekend fast approaching and warmer weather on the way, we want to make sure New Yorkers and residents of our neighboring states are able to safely enjoy outdoor recreational activities," Governor Cuomo said.

"We have been coordinating with other states throughout this entire pandemic, and we have worked on an agreement allowing beaches to be open with proper social distancing and other public health protections in place so we can begin establishing a new normal without jeopardizing the progress we've already made."