DARE COUNTY, N.C. — The Dare County Control Group said it would begin restricting visitor access into the county starting at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17.
The group made the decision based on the updated guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to avoid discretionary travel.
At the time of the decision, there were no cases of COVID-19 reported in Dare County. Officials said that they weighed the potential benefits for the community health against the impacts the restrictions would have on the community.
Checkpoints were to be in place beginning at 2 p.m. at all entry points into Dare County. No visitors will be allowed into the county after that.
Officials said that permanent residents, non-resident property owners and non-resident employees of Dare County businesses may review the entry guidelines. Reentry permits from previous years will not be accepted.
To avoid contact with people at the checkpoints, the county asked that drivers display their permits on their dashboards.
Visitors will not be allowed to travel through Dare County to access:
- Currituck County (Corolla)
- Hyde County (Ocracoke Island)
- Tyrrell County
People who live, own property, or work in Corolla or Ocracoke will be allowed entry.
But restaurants in the seasonal town are worried about their future.
“It’s terrible for business,” said Steamers Restaurant Owner Linda Coats. “But, we just kind of believe you do the right thing and then the business will work out in the long run.”
Spring break usually brings the area a boost, so Coats said local restaurants are on edge. She’s thinking about starting delivery services to help wait staff.
“We are a seasonal area and seasonal areas are very challenging to own businesses in and continue year-to-year,” Coats said.
Coats is thankful the county is taking action but can’t wait for the summer season.
“Hoping that when this blows over, that everyone is going to be so relieved and so thrilled to be out again, that we will make it up,” Coats said.
Personnel working at the Emergency Operations Center are available to answer COVID-19-related questions using a dedicated phone line. Please call 252-475-5008.
Staff members anticipate a high volume of calls. If you reach a voicemail, leave a message, and someone will return your call as soon as possible.