Towns working to keep locals, visitors healthy as tourism ramps up on the Cape

CAPE COD, Mass. — The Cape tourism season is beginning to show signs of life. 

Cape officials have been working for months to figure out how they are going to host vacationers while also keeping locals safe. The region’s COVID-19 plan is now being tested. 

Wellfleet’s Director of Community Services, Suzanne Grout Thomas, told us, “It’s a concern for the out of staters to come here. As well as the people here because it’s all a new mix of people than what they are used to.”

At Mac’s Seafood in Eastham, the fresh seafood is served up alongside strict protocols. 

”It’s absolutely critically important that everybody abides by the guidelines that the Governor has set forth,” said Mac’s Chief Business Officer John Newman.

Businesses are now starting to see tourists head onto the Cape for vacations and getaways. They are all counting on state’s calculated phased reopening to help keep the health numbers low, even with people from higher risk areas like the New York vacationing here. 

“I think it will be worth it if for no other reason people expect us to be here and we want to be here for the community,” said Newman.

Wellfleet has designated one of the town beaches for locals only to help them feel more comfortable. 

“It’s the same people you have shopping with, pumping the gas with all during the pandemic so it’s a little bit more of a comfort level,” said Grout Thomas.

Many of the beaches on the Cape have agreed on standard protocols. For example -- the push here is to have people wear masks even when they are walking along the beach or up to the restrooms and food areas.

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RESOURCES:

- Massachusetts Coronavirus Information

- Boston Coronavirus Information

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