BEACH HAVEN, NJ – Fantasy Island, the amusement park which is the Central Park of fun on Long Beach Island is reopening this weekend to include boardwalk games. On July 2nd, the park will reopen it amusement rides under Governor Phil Murphy’s guidelines.
“Outdoor boardwalk games in the front of the park will be open daily beginning this Friday, June 26 from 4pm-11pm,” the park said. “All outdoor amusements, including rides, will open daily beginning Thursday, July 2 from 4pm-11pm. Stay tuned for more details regarding our health and safety guidelines as well as more information about the arcade.”
This week, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy hailed the return and reopening of amusement parks across New Jersey. For weeks, the amusement park industry has been looking for answers as reopening seemed to be getting pushed off by the governor, even as the traditional Memorial Day Weekend kick off passed.
According to the state, outdoor amusement parks and water parks will be able to reopen next Thursday, July 2.
The directive from the Governor includes rides on boardwalks and in amusement parks. Murphy said ride operates will need to follow specific guidance from the state to better protect their customers and employees. Those guidelines are currently being finalized and will be forthcoming.
The Governor anticipated that park attendance will be kept at first to 50% of listed capacity, and that face coverings will be required of all staff and of attendees, where they are practicable. Strict hygiene protocols should also be fully anticipated.
Rides will need to be configured to ensure six feet distance between groups and must be frequently sanitized. Distance markers must be placed at the line so those waiting for rides are six feet apart.
“None of that should surprise anybody, right?” Murphy asked. “Capacity constraints, face coverings, heightened hygiene, social distancing, those are now, you should expect, folks, those are part of the norm going forward.”
Murphy said the opening was to allow for families to have a safe and healthy fourth of July weekend.
“But with next week’s July 4 holiday weekend rapidly approaching and with families rightfully looking for ways to enjoy their time off together,” Murphy said. “We wanted to make it known that yes, the rides will be in operation. But moreover, we want everyone to enjoy their time together responsibly.”
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