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Fort Monroe restricts access to amenities due to coronavirus

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Posted at 9:34 PM, Apr 01, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-01 21:34:09-04

HAMPTON, Va. - Due to concerns over the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Fort Monroe is restricting access to certain outdoor amenities and activities.

The restrictions are effective immediately in accordance with federal, state and local orders, including the statewide "stay at home" order Gov. Ralph Northam issued Monday.

Areas of closures and suspended activities/amenities include:

• Beaches — access will only be allowed for walking or exercising. No sunbathing, swimming, or gathering in groups will be allowed.
• All basketball courts and playground areas are now closed.
• Fishing piers at Engineer Wharf and Finger Pier are closed.
• All public programs and tours scheduled have canceled.
• Vehicular access to Fenwick Road north of De Russy Field (baseball) is prohibited—bicycles and pedestrians are allowed to access Fenwick Road north of DeRussy Field.

Continued closures include:

• Casemate Museum
• Fort Monroe Authority Main Office
• Fort Monroe Visitor and Education Center
• Fort Monroe Authority Leasing Office
• Fort Monroe National Monument Headquarters
• Old Point Comfort Marina

These steps are being taken to curb the spread of COVID-19 and to protect public health.

These closures, cancellations and suspensions will remain in effect until further notice. Guests who choose to visit Fort Monroe during this time are encouraged to adhere to the guidance of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Virginia Department of Health.

Because services are also limited during this time, park officials are urging visitors to practice "Leave No Trace" principles, including pack-in and pack-out (meaning bringing your own hand sanitizers, disinfecting wipes and trash bags to take with you as you leave Fort Monroe). This will help keep Fort Monroe safe for everyone to enjoy.

Click here for full coronavirus coverage.