Media Release

FOR: Immediate Release
DATE: June 26, 1998
CONTACT: Ernest Julian, Ph.D. (401) 222-2749 x 2429

Health Department Oks Swimming in Bristol and Goddard Park
Ocean Shore Beaches Still Open and Safe

Providence - The Rhode Island Department of Health recommends re-opening beaches in Goddard Park and Bristol based on the results of recent tests for water contamination. Goddard Park State Beach is on Greenwich Bay in Warwick. Bristol Town Beach is near Colt State Park in Bristol, Rhode Island.

Earlier this week, Fort Adams State Beach and King Park (Newport Harbor), re-opened after testing showed that contamination from sewage overflow had subsided.

"It looks like good news for bathers planning a weekend at the beach," said Dr. Patricia Nolan, Director of Health in Rhode Island. "The water quality in the bay is continuing to improve and more beaches are safe for swimming and other recreational uses. We will continue to monitor other areas and recommend that they are re-opened when we’re sure they are safe."

Several public beaches were closed last week due to heavy rains which caused over 175 million gallons of sewage contaminated water to be discharged into the bay. Those which remain closed include Barrington, and Warren town beaches and Conimicut Point, Oakland Beach and City Park (Buttonwoods) in Warwick. All State beaches are open.

Operation of the ocean beaches along the coastline in South County, Newport and Little Compton has not been affected by the sewage contamination in the bay. These include: Scarborough, Narragansett, Matunuck, Charlestown, Sand Hill Cove, Misquamicut, Bonnet Shores, Easton’s, Second and Third Beach (Newport), as well as other popular ocean beaches. They are open and safe for swimming.

According to the Department of Environmental Management (DEM), the existing shellfishing closure remains in effect for all waters north of a line from Long Tree Point in North Kingstown, across Narragansett Bay past the southern tip of South Prudence Island to Carr Point in Portsmouth. DEM is continuing to test the water on a daily basis and remains in contact with representatives of the shellfishing industry to ensure that they are informed about the status of closed area.

The Department of Health also recommends that the boaters using the water in the upper bay wash their hands after contact with water in these areas—particularly before eating.

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Department of Health Website: www.health.state.ri.us