Parking banned along Ocean Boulevard in three Seacoast towns
A new parking ban went into effect this weekend on a main road that runs along the Seacoast.
Parking is no longer permitted along Ocean Boulevard, also known as Route 1A in Seabrook, North Hampton and Rye. The state Department of Transportation said the ban came at the request of officials in the three towns, which all feature beaches.
State beaches have already been closed, but Seacoast police departments say visitors are still rolling into their communities.
“They go into stores, gas stations and other places, and then it's going to spread,” said Rye Police Chief Kevin Walsh, who added that the goal of the parking ban is “to prevent people from coming.”
In Hampton, parking meters are now wrapped in tarps, and barricades now block cars from pulling into spots along the beach.
Signs have been posted near popular pull-offs. State parking lots have also been blocked off.
"There's plenty of indicators out there to let people know that the parking is closed," said state police Capt. Chris Vetter.
State troopers have been brought in to support Seacoast-area law enforcement to ensure the parking restrictions are followed.
“It appears that the vast majority of people are complying with the order,” Vetter said.
But not everyone agrees. Edward Tizzard got a $50 ticket in Rye. He said he didn't see any signs where he parked.
“I came down to the beach to get some fresh air and some exercise. I can't be cooped up in that house all day long, all week long," he said.
Said Walsh: “Rye has the best view in the state of New Hampshire. That's what I say. And I know you want to come see it. But for the next two weeks, we are asking people to stay at home."