All parks located within the Channel Islands Harbor will be closed to the public beginning Wednesday, April 1, the Ventura County Harbor Department announced today.

Harbor Department Director Mark Sandoval said the move is consistent with an action announced today at the Board of Supervisors meeting to close all County parks to minimize the public’s exposure to the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

“We are making this move for the safety of our community, employees, and visitors,” Sandoval said.  “We urge everyone to stay inside as much as possible and practice social distancing when going outside.”

Sandoval said closure signs will be posted and barricades will be placed around the areas under closure this week. There are four parks located in the Harbor.

Neighboring Silver Strand, Hollywood and Kiddie Beaches, as well as the public launch ramp, are also being considered for closure.

“As more and more neighboring beaches, launch ramps and waterfront areas are closing around us, we are seeing an increase in crowds here in our open public spaces and at the launch ramp,” Sandoval said. “This will undoubtedly increase the health risks in our area, and that is a situation which cannot be allowed.”

Editor’s Note: this story was published March 31, 2020.