Coronavirus: Crowds pack Massachusetts beach amid pandemic

NEWBURY, Mass. — Amid the coronavirus pandemic, hundreds of people packed a Massachusetts beach Sunday.

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According to Boston’s WFXT, Newbury police Chief Michael Reilley was disappointed by the crowds at Plum Island beach.

“It really wasn’t even that great of a beach day,” said Reilly. “But it was a beautiful sunny day, and it was pandemonium.”

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He said cars were parked all along Plum Island Turnpike, and many of them were from out of state. Police say too many people were not social distancing, while Massachusetts is in the middle of a surge in COVID-19 cases.

“My officers described it as busy as a Fourth of July weekend in 90-degree weather,” said Reilly. “It was extremely busy.”

Right now, police said only permit parking is permitted on Plum Island, but hundreds ignored that Sunday.

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“They were like tailgate parties, and they would be carrying their beach furniture with them instead of taking a walk to use the beach like Gov. Baker suggested, in a transient fashion, taking a walk or jog or exercise. ...They were making a day of it,” said Reilly.

So now, Newbury town leaders are getting aggressive with their parking restrictions to prevent gatherings on the beach during this pandemic. They closed all parking lots to the public and will start ticketing and towing those who come to Plum Island while a stay-at-home advisory is in effect.

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“It’s a $50 parking ticket, and then your car won’t be there when you get off the beach because it will be towed,” said Reilly.

Reilly said that if people don’t obey these rules, officials will be forced to close down the beach completely, but he hopes if everyone continues to social distance, there’s still a chance people can enjoy the summer there.

“If we’re disciplined and aggressive now, hopefully that will pay dividends a month from now, and we’ll get back to a normal life,” said Reilly. “That’s what we’re hoping for.”