MA Coronavirus: Baker Closes Parking At State Beaches

FALMOUTH, MA — Gov. Charlie Baker has ordered all parking areas at beaches managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation to close to promote social distancing during the new coronavirus pandemic. All of these parking lots much close by noon, Friday.

Some communities like Falmouth have already banned parking at municipal beaches.

"These parking lots have periodically become gathering places for some individuals who are not practicing the necessary social distancing to prevent the spread of this virus," Falmouth police said in a statement. "As warmer weather arrives, this unfortunate trend is likely to accelerate with potentially disastrous results."

State officials said they will open select seasonal state parks early and expand access at other parks to provide additional open space opportunities for residents to enjoy and alternatives to popular state parks. These openings are effective at noon, Friday.

Coastal parkways that provide access to state beaches will also be closed to both parking and dropping off passengers. State beaches will remain open and available to pedestrians for walking, jogging, biking, solitary fishing and other solitary activities only. Specific parking and traffic restrictions can be found here.

State parks and associated parking areas remain open as of Thursday afternoon, but state officials asked the public to visit state parks that are near their homes to ensure social distancing.

Additionally, state-owned ice rinks, visitor centers, campgrounds, playgrounds, fitness areas, athletic fields, athletic courts, golf courses, and bathroom facilities will remain closed until May 4.

Baker said state officials will also limit the amount of parking spaces available at certain high-visitation state parks. If a park is crowded, visitors should consider visiting a different location or returning at a later date or time.

State officials advised visitors of state parks to:

• Stay within solitary or small groups, and avoid gatherings of ten or more people;
• Practice social distancing of at least six feet between individuals;
• Participate in only non-contact recreational activities;
• Practice healthy personal hygiene, such as handwashing for at least 20 seconds; and,
• Stay home if ill, over 70, and/or part of a vulnerable population.

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