Wildwood bans alcohol on beach, boardwalk
WILDWOOD, N.J. (CBS) -- With Memorial Day Weekend almost here, a trip to this Jersey Shore town could have consequences. Wildwood banned alcohol on its beach and boardwalk during a Board of Commissioners meeting Wednesday night.
The ban will take effect in early June.
"Alcohol of any kind has always been prohibited on the beach and boardwalk," Mayor Pete Byron said in a news release. "In fact, there is already a sign at every street entrance to the beach. This new ordinance not only prohibits the drinking and/or open display of alcohol but also says the mere existence of any kind of alcohol is prohibited."
People visiting Wildwood ahead of the holiday weekend have mixed opinions on the stricter alcohol ban.
Chrissy Herin of Langhorne said the ban will help keep the beaches family-friendly.
"I think it's probably a good thing because there's a lot of fighting and violence that happens after a certain hour," Herin said. "So, it's probably good."
However, Jess Birnbaum said responsible adults should be allowed to have a drink on the beach.
"I think it's a little upsetting. I mean, people come down here for a good time and to relax after work," Birnbaum said. "I guess we'll see how it turns out."
Although Roseann Runowski, of Bensalem, would like to make a slight change to the ordinance.
"I think it's a good idea on the boardwalk," Runowski said. "I do like my drinks on the beach, though."
City officials said certain restaurants and permitted events will have exceptions.
