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INDIAN RIVER COUNTY Beaches remain open with restrictions on picnics and parties, but officials are hoping that could change soon.

Officials continue to evaluate facilities such as public beaches, County Administrator Jason Brown said Friday. The hope is to lift some restrictions within the next couple of weeks.

"We want to see how the first weekend goes," Brown said.

After closing because of the coronavirus,county beaches re-opened Tuesday to allow activities such as swimming, walking, running and kayaking. Social-distancing ruleskeeping 6 feet apart and limiting groups to less than 10 still apply.

More: Coronavirus in Florida: Indian River County beaches reopen for first day of 'essential activities' only

Indian River County officials re-opened the public beach access points to the community on Tuesday, April 28, 2020. Beach activities are limited to "essential activities" only, according to County Administrator Jason Brown. Those include running, walking, surfing and exercise. (Photo: PATRICK DOVE/TCPALM)

Tents, blankets, coolers and chairs remain prohibited items, as sunbathing and "hanging out" activities are not allowed.

While Emergency Services Director Tad Stone said those restrictions couldbe part of the second or third phases of the state's reopening plan,likely two to fourweeks away, Brown said restrictions could be lifted sooner.

Re-opening facilities such as the IG Center could take longer, Brown said.

The county is re-opening a few other facilities, too.

Sandridge Golf Course reopened Friday, and the Indian River County Shooting Range off County Road 512 is expected to open May 8, officials said.

The Indian River County Main Library and North County Library partially opened to "book holds" this week, allowing people to reserve books or DVDs online and then pickthem up outsidethe library. Library materials also can be returned at the libraries.

More: Treasure Coast gears up for business re-opening following Gov. DeSantis' announcement

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Indian River County beaches open for exercise, and there's hope picnics could return soon - TCPalm