RI Beaches Attract Large Crowds, Officials Say Mask Wearing Needs to Improve

RI Beaches Attract Large Crowds, Officials Say Mask Wearing Needs to Improve

With temperatures in the high 80s this weekend, Rhode Islanders -- and more --  flooded the state beaches despite the limitation on parking. The restriction on the number of available spots has been an effort to try to control social distancing and stop the spread of coronavirus. 

According to state officials, the state beaches attracted between 40,000 and 45,000 visitors combined for Saturday and Sunday.

Officials, however, voiced disappointment with the failure of beachgoers to wear masks.

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"Yesterday was packed, packed, packed. Just short of 4,000 cars at the eight state beaches and probably around 25,000 visitors," said Michael Healey, spokesperson for the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management.

"[There were] fewer visitors today, maybe because families were having breakfasts, brunches, and barbecues with Dad. but still likely between 5,000 and 20,000 at the beaches," Healey added. "So in all, 40,000 to 45,000 for both days.” 

Lack of Masks

“We need visitors to do a better job wearing masks when they go up to the pavilions to buy a Del’s, pick up their chicken fingers and fries at the snack bar, or use the restrooms. [There was] not a lot of mask-wearing on the pavilions, which is concerning,” said Healey.

Rhode Island’s former Director of Health Dr. Michael Fine in an interview GoLocal LIVE last week said, “We still don’t know a lot about the virus, but the one thing we know is that masks decrease the spread of the virus."

In the past 12 weeks, nearly 900 Rhode Islanders have died related to the virus, according to the state.

Rhode Island's state beaches are Scarborough North and South, Roger Wheeler, and Salty Brine in Narragansett; East Matunuck in South Kingstown, Charlestown Breachway and East Beach in Charlestown, and Misquamicut in Westerly.

State's Statement on Beachers

Rhode Island state beaches are now open to visitors with new restrictions. Lifeguards will be on duty and concessions, beach pavilions, and restrooms will be open, although portajohns may be needed at some locations. The number of parking spots will be reduced at some locations.

All patrons will be required to practice social distancing by keeping at least six feet of distance between themselves and others, including between groups on the beach. Face coverings should be worn in the public/high use areas. Thank you for your patience as we work to protect the safety of our visitors and staff.

This story was first published 6/21/20 6:04 PM