Town Administrator James McGrail and Health Director Karen Walega announce that, per order by the Marion Board of Health, the Town of Marion is closing all parking lots associated with beach parking as an additional step to encourage social distancing during COVID-19.
This order is effective April 3 and will remain in effect until further notice.
Lots associated with parking at Silvershell Beach, Planting Island and the Beach at Oakdale Avenue will be closed.
The order does not include public parking at Island Wharf and Old Landing.
This decision was made based on the latest guidance from state officials regarding COVID-19 and social distancing efforts. Governor Baker ordered all coastal beach reservation parking areas managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation to close in order to reduce large numbers of people at the beaches.
Marion officials would like to remind all residents that social distancing guidelines have been extended through the month of April, per federal and state orders. While the Town’s beaches remain open and residents are encouraged to get outside for fresh air, it is vitally important for people to stop congregating outside.
Outdoor activities such as walking, running, biking and hiking, with members of the same household, are options for exercise and fresh air that minimize contact and maximize social distancing.
Officials are closely monitoring state and federal guidance regarding the COVID-19 situation and will provide updates as new information becomes available.