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PROVIDENCE, RI – Governor Dan McKee today signed an Executive Order at Rocky Point State Park designating Sunday, July 27, as Rhode Island’s 36th annual Governor’s Bay Day. The event includes free parking at all eight Rhode Island state surf beaches on July 27, and license-free recreational saltwater fishing from July 25 to July 27.
The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) will waive the roundtrip fare on the South County Express Beach Bus on Sunday, July 27. The South County Express Beach Bus provides weekend-only express service from Central Falls, Cranston, North Providence, Pawtucket, Providence, and Woonsocket to Salty Brine, Roger Wheeler (Sand Hill Cove), and Scarborough State Beaches. Service to the beach will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Nothing beats a summer day on the bay," said Governor Dan McKee. "Governor’s Bay Day is one of the summer’s best traditions—a chance for both Rhode Islanders and visitors to enjoy our beautiful state beaches or fish in Narragansett Bay, all free of charge. Bay Day is also a reminder of how lucky we are to have Narragansett Bay as the Ocean State’s most iconic natural resource—and how important it is that we protect it.”
“Rhode Island has so much to offer, and there’s nowhere better to be in the summer than at the beach or fishing on Narragansett Bay,” said Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi. “Bay Day is a wonderful tradition that makes our stunning waterways even more accessible for all Rhode Islanders, and I’m thrilled to celebrate it at one of our many beautiful state parks.”
“Governor’s Bay Day is an opportunity to spotlight Rhode Island’s treasured parks and beaches, along with the jewel that is Narragansett Bay,” said Sen. Mark P. McKenney (D-Dist. 30, Warwick). “It is also a chance to reaffirm our shared commitment to ensuring all Rhode Islanders can enjoy our coastline and natural resources. I am grateful for this important celebration of the Ocean State’s identity.”
“Narragansett Bay is central to Rhode Island’s environment and quality of life,” said Department of Environmental Management (DEM) Director Terry Gray. “With over 400 miles of coastline, clean waters are crucial for public health, economy, and ecosystems. Thanks to strong environmental laws and major investments in wastewater and stormwater systems, our waters are much healthier today. Bay Day began in response to the 1989 World Prodigy Oil Spill, reminding us both of the Bay’s beauty and the need protect it.”
“Governor’s Bay Day is a celebration of everything that makes Warwick and Rhode Island so special—our beautiful coastline, our fishing heritage, and our shared commitment to protecting Narragansett Bay,” said Warwick Mayor Frank J. Picozzi. “I want to thank Governor McKee for continuing this tradition and for highlighting the importance of preserving our natural resources for future generations. We’re proud to host this event here in Warwick.”
“Narragansett Bay is Rhode Island’s greatest resource for recreation, our economy, and a source of sustainable, healthy food for our families,” said Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association (RISAA) Executive Director Scott Travers. “We thank our Governor Dan McKee and his administration for their work in ensuring that Narragansett Bay continues to be a beautiful, abundant, and healthy resource for everyone to enjoy. Governor’s Bay Day is the perfect opportunity for everyone to head outside, experience adventure, and appreciate the natural world which we all share.”
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