1st Selectman Jim Marpe says:
Due to the extreme heat forecast for this weekend, increased vehicular and pedestrian traffic is anticipated at Westport beaches.
In an abundance of caution and to insure public health and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the beach reaches a capacity where it is deemed impossible to maintain social distancing, it will be closed to additional beachgoers. S
Signage at key intersections on local roadways will inform drivers if the beach is closed, and traffic will be diverted from the area. Drop-offs will not be allowed.
These types of crowded conditions start from mid to late mornings. We advise residents who wish to spend the day at the beach to arrive before 10 a.m.
The beach may re-open mid to late afternoon, provided safer conditions relative to crowds and social distancing are observed at that time.
The goal is for everyone to enjoy Compo — and obey the rules. (Photo/Tom Cook)
The town will make every effort to inform residents of conditions throughout the day via the Town of Westport and Parks and Recreation Department website home pages, and the Town and Parks and Rec Facebook pages.
At Compo Beach you are reminded to wear masks on the boardwalk, using the restrooms or sidewalks, or any other time when you are unable to maintain a 6- foot distance from others.
Your cooperation, patience and understanding with the town staff and police who will enforce and maintain traffic and crowd control during these unprecedented times is appreciated.
I have utmost confidence that town health and safety officials have only the best interests of residents and guests in mind when making difficult decisions. I also know that Westporters understand and accept the gravity of the current health crisis. I am grateful that we are at a point where our town amenities may be open and thriving. But now more than ever, we must enjoy them in a safe and responsible manner while respecting our family, neighbors and friends.
Where is the so called enforcer?Last Sat I observed a gathering of 22adults plus at least 10 kids On South Beach Not a mask in sight?Brought their own table and many pizza boxes and drinksNo social distancing I properly used the Restroom with a mask as did my companion
I sat on the bench and watched a dozen or so mainly adults use the restroom Not a single mask of WC users.I did ask at the gate and was told nothing could be done about it.Compliance.?Even the young man collecting the trash was shocked by this assemblage ,He drove to gate and came back to tell me the nothing could be done response.Also the rest rooms should have hand sanitizer and a can of Lysol would be a great idea
Point is we are stating a policy which is great but reality is rather different.I decided against saying anything as I was not up for verbal abuse which seems to be the norm for those who believe the guidelines do not apply to them. My personal observation
Arline P Gertzoff
RTM3
The beaches should simply be closed, like they have been in Florida and California. Nowhere else in Westport is the danger of the virus spreading more than at the beach, with hundreds (thousands?) of people around each other. Most everyone has backyards. Use them!
1st Selectman Jim Marpe / thank you for the heads up
Best,
Gerald F. Romano, Jr.