MIAMI BEACH, Florida. Nearly a year after some Florida spring details refused to let the coronavirus disrupt their festivities and helped trigger a wave of blockades, this city is preparing for a new harvest of festivities.
While many schools have canceled spring break to prevent students from congregating on vacation spots, officials here expect a large influx over the next few weeks. Flights and hotels are cheap. The brutal winter storms of much of the country left people yearning to flee. And Florida’s pandemic rules on bars and nightclubs are more lenient than those in many states.
“We could see a truly resized spring break at a time when the last thing we want are important meetings,” said Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber, a Democrat. He cited concerns from public health specialists that these crowds could lead to another increase in Covid-19 cases.
Bars, restaurants and clubs will be open with a capacity of not less than 50%, because the city cannot close them under a state executive order. But Miami Beach, a barrier island known for its stylish hotels and lively nightlife, is taking a zero-tolerance approach. Officials have tightened restrictions from February 22 to April 12 and expect maximum activity in March. They have also launched an advertising campaign urging young people to vacation responsibly.
There are more police officers and patrol code enforcement officers to enforce measures, such as a midnight curfew and bans on alcohol and lead boxes on the beach. The music on the premises cannot exceed the ambient noise levels. Beach patrols ensure that groups maintain social distance and wear masks when needed.