New restrictions put into place by local and federal leaders aim to balance residents’ safety and ability to relax this Memorial Day weekend.

With the unofficial start to summer underway across the country, it's also the start of a potential new era in the fight against the coronavirus. Millions of Americans are expected to observe the Memorial Day weekend holiday by taking advantage of some open beaches and restaurants, as all 50 states have lifted some level of restrictions.

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However, new restrictions at beaches and businesses have been put into place with the hopes of residents being able to safely travel outside.

"What we everyone to do is help stop the spread by making sure they're maintaining the executive orders for six feet apart and no more than ten in a crowd," said Virginia Beach Deputy City Manager Ron Williams.

For the first time in 20 years, AAA chose not to release a Memorial Day travel forecast. The association said the pandemic undermined economic data. This is a sign that, despite the gradual reopening of businesses across the country, more residents will be observing this Memorial Day weekend with little to no traveling.

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Meanwhile, President Donald Trump announced Friday that he deemed all places of worship as essential and demanded they reopen this weekend.

"The governors need to do the right thing and allow these very important essential places of faith to open right now, for this weekend. If they don't do it, I will override the governors," said Trump.

Trump also took a moment to honor the nation's veterans and those who died serving the country

"Their names are etched forever into the hearts of our people and the memory of our nation," said Trump.

As well, the White House ordered all flags at half-staff this weekend to honor those who have lost their lives to the virus.