Multiple steps and extraordinary measures will be needed
No announcements seem imminent, but the Dare County Control Group who ordered the closure of the Outer Banks, has begun discussing what will be involved in reopening. There is cautious optimism that travel restrictions will be lifted by the summer although caution will still be needed. Michelle Wagner, writing for the Outer Banks Voice, has the story.
“While the timing of initiating reentry into Dare County for visitors and non-resident property owners remains uncertain, the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau is already preparing for vacationers with the development of a public relations campaign that emphasizes public health and safety as a top priority.
Citing statistics from destination analysts, Outer Banks Visitors Bureau Executive Director Lee Nettles told the Dare County Tourism Board of Directors on April 16 that an estimated 74 percent of people are concerned about contracting COVID-19, with an even a higher percentage concerned about their family and friends being infected.”