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05/23/2018 12:00 AMFirst Selectman Tom Banisch announced today that the Beach & Recreation Department has added 16 more parking spaces to West Wharf Beach to allow for more resident parking in time for the Memorial Weekend opening of the parks and beaches.
Banisch said, "By moving the gate from its former position near the Grassy Strip up to Parker Avenue, we are able to easily add parking spaces to accommodate more beach pass holders."
Beach & Rec Director Scot Erskine had suggested the move last year in an attempt to provide more parking. "We thought that the Hotel might object, but they were very supportive of the move." he said. He also said that there would be stepped-up enforcement of the Parking Pass rules this year.
"Our gate guards and Facility Monitors are able to write citations for illegal parking at the beach, and the gate is clearly marked to state that no parking is allowed between the hours of 8 a.m and 8 p.m, so we intend to make sure that parking is available for Daily Tag and Season Pass holders."
First Selectman Banisch said, "This comes at a time when residents may see an influx of out-of-towners, as the State of Connecticut has made admission to all state parks, including Hammonassett, free to all CT residents. I'm concerned that the [state] park will fill up and people who can't get in will look elsewhere in town to go to a beach. We'll be vigilant to be sure our town assets are deployed for residents and their guests."