Coventry Cancels Summer Camp; Briar Point Beach To Remain Closed

COVENTRY, RI — Summer programming will look a lot different in Coventry this summer because of the coronavirus pandemic. Town leadership announced that there will be no day camp this year, Briar Point Beach is not expected to open and summer sports leagues will not be held.

These decisions were made both because of limits on crowds and budget constraints caused by the pandemic, the town's Parks and Recreation Department said. Although the Summer Entertainment Series won't be held as usual, the department is exploring alternative ways to hold free, family-friendly events this year.

Briar Point Beach

At this town, the town does not plan to open Briar Point Beach this summer, due to "too much uncertainty associated with the pandemic and its impacts." The beach may be opened later in the summer if it is safe to do, the department said, taking into account staffing, budget and public health constraints.

Summer camp

This year, Coventry will not hold summer day camp. This decision was made because of uncertainty associated with the pandemic, a town-wide hiring freeze and concerns over large groups of children in town facilities, even as the state begins to loosen restrictions and reopen the economy.

The Parks and Rec department is working to develop alternative programming to replace summer camp this year. More information will be announced at a later date.

League sports

All summer sports leagues are canceled until further notice. Summer field permits have been revoked and the basketball league will not be held.

The town hopes to have some sports activities in the summer, and may resume leagues in the fall or late summer, depending on the latest guidelines from the Rhode Island Department of Health.