Media Release

FOR: Immediate Release
DATE: September 1, 1999
CONTACT: Ron Lee (401) 222-4948 x 2422 (pager: 482-8840)

Conimicut Point Closed to Swimming Due to High Bacteria Levels
Warren Town Beach Reopens but Goddard Park Remains Closed

Providence – Today the Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) in cooperation with the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and the City of Warwick advised the public that Conimicut Point Beach will be closed for swimming until further notice. Yesterday, HEALTH recommended closing Goddard Park State Beach (Warwick) and Warren Town Beach due to high levels of coliform bacteria. Warren Town Beach may reopen later today.

"The most recent water samples show coliform bacteria levels above the bathing water standard for Conimicut Point," said Dr. Patricia Nolan, Director of Health in Rhode Island. "Goddard Park is still high. We will continue to monitor the test results and recommend reopening the beaches when we know they're safe."

State authorities regularly monitor beaches for bacteria and other contaminants. Samples taken on August 28^th showed elevated levels fecal coliform bacteria for Warren and Goddard Park. By August 29^th, test results improved in Warren but Conimicut Point showed elevated levels of bacteria. HEALTH officials refer to recent heavy rains as contributing to the problem in these two areas. Officials will continue to monitor bacteria levels over the next few days.

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