New Haven Beach Remains Closed

NEW HAVEN, CT — A New Haven beach remains closed following test results that showed higher than acceptable bacteria levels, according to a statement from the city. New Haven Health Director Maritza Bond ordered the beach remain closed Monday morning after one out of three samples registered higher than acceptable bacteria levels.

Bond’s initial order to close the beach came Saturday morning, following Tropical Storm Elsa. Storm water and sewage overflow can cause elevated bacteria levels following significant rain events.

"I'm thankful for the quick turnaround by the state testing lab," Bond said in a statement. "Our goal is to re-open the beach as soon as it is deemed safe, to that end we will collect additional samples tomorrow morning and anticipate results for the new samples on Thursday."

While the beach is closed, Lighthouse Point Park and the splash pad remain open.

"I'm thankful for Director Bond's leadership on this matter, and for her decisive action that kept our residents safe," Mayor Justin Elicker said in a statement.

The storm's aftermath resulted in water quality issues at several beaches across the state.

Gay City, Wharton Brook and Rocky Neck swim areas are closed due to the quality of the water, and are being retested. The results will be made available later this week.

Mashamoquet swimming area is closed for maintenance, and Wadsworth Falls State Park is currently shut due to storm damage.

See related: Connecticut Beach Water Quality: 5 Beaches Are Closed