Varying Degrees of Social Distancing / Miami New Times
On Tuesday, March 17, after orders from Gov. Ron DeSantis for all Florida bars and nightclubs to close from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., South Beach observed varying degrees of social distancing. Washington Avenue and Ocean Drive were scattered with groups of spring break tourists who didn't seem bothered by the threat of a global pandemic. Miami Beach Police posted in squads along the barricades blocking Lummus Park, ignoring groups of tourists. Española Way maintained moderate crowds enjoying a late dinner, and the walk-up window at Sunny's on Collins Avenue was packed. Lincoln Road, however, was almost completely empty and eerily quiet with outside cafés stacked and restaurants closed up. Shot for Miami New Times.