Avalon Imposes Curfew For Beaches, Boardwalk

Posted July 27th 2020

Avalon beaches are closed from 9pm-4am, and the boardwalk is closed from 11pm-4am, following the municipal ordered issued by Mayor Martin Pagliughi. The order was placed in an attempt to remove and disperse the large groups of minors in these areas who were violating municipal and state orders that require social distancing and the wearing of masks.
“The closing of the beach and boardwalk during the later evening and overnight hours is a necessary step to take this summer in light of the pandemic that has continued a public health emergency in New Jersey,” Pagliughi said. “We are asking not only teens and young adults, but their parents, to join us as committed stakeholders to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by socially distancing and wearing masks.”

The executive order was placed on July 11 and is in effect until further notice. Avalon police officers have frequently encountered groups of minors and young adults totaling in the hundreds who were violating social-distancing guidelines and resisted orders to disperse.

“It’s important for the safety and protection of minors and young adults to follow this order and simply not gather in another location,” said Police Chief Jeffrey Christopher. “New Jersey remains in a public health emergency, and the Cape May County Department of Health has identified a growing high-risk group that includes teens and young adults. This is a necessary proactive measure that will be enforced by the Avalon Police Department.”

In addition to the order, Pagliughi also released a statement expanding his cancelation of special events beyond the end of July, until further notice. The only event that remains for the town is the Tuesday evening Beach Movies held at dusk at 30th Street, and social distancing is managed and executed by Borough staff.

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