Westerly -- Police Chief and acting Town Manager Shawn Lacey has announced the town has doubled its parking fines to $150 in some popular beach areas.

The fines, which took effect Friday, come as capacity at Misquamicut State Beach has been reduced from 75 percent to 25 percent because of overcrowding and lack of social distancing. The reduction has made it difficult to find beach parking in Misquamicut, which only has handful of private lots open to the public. Some of those turned away are expected to look for parking on nearby side streets where parking is not allowed. 

The increased fines also apply to Larkin Road and Bay Street in Watch Hill, where people park to visit Napatree Point and the small beach next to the carousel; Atlantic Avenue in Misquamicut, Spray Rock Road in Weekapaug and other restricted parking areas. The fines had been $75. The increased fines will remain in effect until Oct. 15.