MA State Beaches, Parks Parking Free For 4th Of July Weekend

Massachusetts residents planning a Fourth of July trip to a state beach or park will not have to pay for parking at Department of Conservation and Recreation properties from July 3 to 5.

Gov. Maura Healey said on Thursday that the statewide waiver is tied to the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.

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"We want people to enjoy the Fourth of July weekend, especially as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding," said Gov. Healey. "In recognition of that, we're making parking at all of our state properties free this weekend."

The state said the waiver will be used across DCR's paid parking system, including the Yodel app, pay stations and field staff parking operations.

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Parking will still be first-come, first-served, and high-demand locations may close when lots reach capacity.

DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle said the holiday period is the agency's busiest weekend of the year.

"The Fourth of July is DCR's busiest weekend of the year, when families, friends and neighbors from across Massachusetts and beyond come together to celebrate America's birthday in our parks and beaches," said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle.

LaChapelle also said the fee waiver is intended to improve access to outdoor spaces during the holiday.

"By waiving parking fees, we're making it easier for more people to enjoy the outdoors and celebrate in the places that belong to all of us," she said. "As we mark the 250thanniversary of our nation, we look forward to welcoming visitors to our properties across the state, and we encourage everyone to plan ahead and enjoy the time outdoors."

The parking waiver comes a day after Healey announced updated beach testing results following the sewer force main failure in Haverhill.

The state also said local beaches have conducted testing and many have moved forward with allowing swimming.

Ongoing water testing will continue at beaches and river areas in potentially impacted areas to ensure conditions remain safe for the public.

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