Orchard Beach charges for parking amid crisis

Are Bronx residents being priced out of being able to socially distance in part of the borough’s largest park?

News 12 Staff

May 27, 2020, 8:55 PM

Updated 1,593 days ago

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Are Bronx residents being priced out of being able to socially distance in part of the borough’s largest park? 
Some are questioning why they have to pay for parking at Orchard Beach, especially when there’s no swimming allowed and no lifeguards. 
Parking costs $8 on weekdays and $10 on weekends for motorcycles and cars to park at the beach. 
News 12’s Amanda Bossard spoke with Bronx residents who are concerned, and details how officials are responding.
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 The Parks Department told News 12 in a statement, "Pelham Bay Park remains open and accessible for New Yorkers to enjoy—though swimming is currently prohibited at our public beaches, there are still many opportunities for solo recreation with safe social distancing in the park. While there are no current plans to reduce parking fees, we are not raising rates this year, and we remain committed to reopening additional amenities as public health conditions improve and it is safe to do so."