 LEWES, Del. - Many out-of-state travelers come to Delaware to vacation, and Delawareans visit bordering states for a weekend getaway. On Tuesday, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced anyone traveling from Delaware and 18 other states, should self-isolate for 14 days.
This travel advisory applies to states with a positive test rate of ten per 100,000. Delaware Governor John Carney says the first state just fits that requirement, though some days the state is under it.
The new recommendation brought surprise and some new procedures at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry.
If you're visiting Lewes, masks are required downtown between Savannah Road, Market Street, Third Street, and the canal from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Lewes Mayor Ted Becker says, "If either the ambassadors or the meter patrol people come across someone who is being particularly difficult they can certainly call the police to come and assist."
The city is considering expanding the mask requirement in beach parking lots and enforcing it in restrooms at the beach as well.
"Majority people in Downtown Lewes are being much more compliant than they were, we're not at 100 percent by a long shot, but much better than we were," says Mayor Becker.
And if you're planning to head to neighboring states like New Jersey or New York from Delaware, expect to self-isolate for 14 days even though it is not required.
"I think it will be really hard for people in Delaware to vacation and quarantine for 14 days but safety first," saysÂ
Governor Carney believes Delaware does not belong in the category as other states like Arizona and Florida.
"I don't think that we should be singled out. Certainly not by our partners in the region that we've tried to help when they needed our help," says Governor Carney.
On Wednesday, travelers heading on to the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, just learned about that state's 14 day quarantine. Travelers will receive a flier at the toll booth and the captain will make an announcement while the ferry is in route to Cape May.
"We're coming through Delaware, we never actually got out the car, so we aren't planning on self quarantining, but we are going to Cape May to enjoy the weekend," says
One New Jersey resident, came to Delaware for a few hours just to buy a jet ski, but he says he definitely plans to quarantine, "I'm 64 so I take it seriously."
Only time will tell how long this remains in effect for Delawareans. Wednesday is also the first day the ferry allowed foot passengers after suspending it back in March.
