By Max Bowen-max.bowen@northstarreporter.com
A signature sign of the summer has opened today, but some new rules will apply.
According to information posted from the Conservation Commission, Barbara Road Beach will reopen on July 2. The beach will be restricted to North Attleborough residents only. The boat ramp remains open to Massachusetts residents. The town is partnering with the YMCA to staff the beach with lifeguards and gate attendants.
The Whiting’s Pond beach and boat ramp will remain closed until further notice.
Below are other restrictions that will be in place at Barbara’s Road Beach:
- The beach area will be limited to seven group spots which will be marked by stakes. Area for the lifeguards is included.
- All open fence areas (Huntley Road and Burt Drive) will be closed off to restrict access to main gate/gate attendant.
- Once seven spots are occupied a sign will be posted, beach parking will be closed, and no further access will be allowed until a space is open.
- Groups will be limited to three hours per spot (contingent upon demand and subject to discretion of staff).
- No parking fees will be charged this season due to beach restrictions and complexity of obtaining beach parking passes.
- Gate attendants will verify North Attleborough resident only for beach goers. Proof of residency to include: license, utility bill, or other as deemed appropriate by staff.
- Boat ramp hours will be changed to coincide with the YMCA staffing (9 a.m.-7 p.m., subject to change).
- Boat ramp will remain open during open hours, parking for trailers in designated spots until full. Gate attendants will verify boat ramp users, and this can be Massachusetts residents only.
- Signage will be posted for beach area and boat ramp area in accordance with state guidelines (e.g. social distancing, etc.).
