Media Release

FOR: Immediate Release
DATE: July 3, 1998 -- Update
CONTACT: Ernest Julian, Ph.D. (401) 222-2749 x 2429 (Pager: 581-1291)

Goddard State Park Beach in Warwick
Closed to Swimming

Providence – Today the Rhode Island Department of Health advised the public that Goddard State Park Beach in Warwick will be closed for swimming until further notice. The park itself will remain open for all other activities.

"The most recent water samples for this beach showed bacteria levels that were above the bathing water standard," said Dr. Patricia Nolan, Director of Health in Rhode Island.

Town beaches in Barrington and Warren remain closed in addition to Conimicut Point, Oakland Beach and City Park (Buttonwoods) beaches in Warwick.

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. King Park Beach and Fort Adams Beach in Newport are also open for swimming.

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

For information concerning shellfish closure areas call the Department of Environmental Management’s shellfishing recorded hotline at 401-222-2900.

For speech or hearing impaired,
1-800-745-5555 (TTY)
Department of Health Website: www.health.state.ri.us