Democratic and Republican lawmakers in New York are calling for the creation of a task force that would coordinate the reopening of beaches.

What You Need To Know

  • Parts of the state could reopen Friday
  • The summer tourism season is in doubt
  • Lawmakers want to begin planning now

​The lawmakers, led by Democratic Sens. Todd Kaminsky and Diane Savino, wrote a letter to Gov. Andrew Cuomo calling for a beach reopening plan as a gradual reopening of parts of upstate New York will begin on Friday.

“Droves of ocean-goers streaming to our shores in search of relief and relaxation following months of isolation will require unprecedented levels of planning and cooperation in light of our newfound health challenges,” the lawmakers wrote. “We must immediately begin to develop a comprehensive approach which will allow New Yorkers access to their beaches without endangering their lives and the lives of others.”

The summer tourism season across the state is very much in doubt due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Beach communities in New York rely on a strong tourism season as well as revenue from beachgoers for permits.

Several areas of upstate New York, including the North Country, Mohawk Valley, Finger Lakes and Southern Tier regions, are due to reopen this week for manufacturing, construction and some curbside pickup.