To the editor:

Many of our favorite local attractions were closed or restricted in summer 2020. Third Beach in Middletown was no exception. Citing the need to maintain adequate social distancing, the town council decided to allow only residents to enjoy this beach throughout the 2020 season.

With the summer of 2021 fast approaching, schools and businesses open and vaccine rollout ramping up, I assumed that our island beach access would return to normal. 

Imagine the surprise when I learned that Third Beach is once again closed to all non-residents. I again reached out to the (Middletown) town council, curious and frustrated about the decision. I was told by a council member, “The council heard from our residents and they felt like they had their beaches back last year and did not have to wait in lines to get in. We received the least amount of complaints and all positive feedback about our resident’s beach experience last year.”

As a lifelong resident of Aquidneck Island who has lived in all three of our island communities over the years, I am extremely saddened by this decision. If Middletown residents drove this choice to become exclusive according to the council, whom are the residents happy to “have their beach back” from exactly? The wild and crazy young families with children? The elderly who can’t climb over the dunes to access Second Beach? The people who would like to use the boat ramp to launch their sailboats and paddleboards? 

Non-residents have always had to wait in line to access the boat ramp lot on busy days while the residents enjoy a private lot at the other end with plenty of spaces. Why aren’t we returning to this decades long practice now that we as a community are getting back to normal?

Not only has Middletown decided to restrict access to Third Beach for Portsmouth and Newport residents, the town is also expecting non-residents to pay the same fee as always of $140 for a season pass — a pass which used to allow use of two beaches. Shouldn’t the cost be cut in half if we are not welcome at Third Beach? In addition, spots at Second Beach have been deemed “residents only,” further curtailing access despite the same high price.

The Town of Middletown should remember the Portsmouth and Newport residents who support the local economy year-round and who are ready and willing to support and care for our beaches each summer. Aren’t we all one island community? We all respect and enjoy the outdoor attractions this island has to offer. The town council should re-consider and open Third Beach parking as in the past prior to this pandemic. Haven’t we all lost enough?

Krista Haskell

247 Hilltop Drive 

Portsmouth