Worcester County, MD - To safeguard public safety and improve visitor experience, three popular areas at Assateague Island National Seashore - the Bayside Parking Area, Bayside Beach, and Bayside Picnic Area- will close for construction starting Monday, April 1^st. 

The Assateague Island National Seashore staff will initiate emergency shore stabilization work and modify the parking zone's layout. Assateague Island Outfitters will also relocate their concession building. 

Due to heavy construction machinery operating in the area, it will be closed to all visitors, including vehicular, watercraft, and foot traffic, for public safety purposes.

Over the past few winters, this area, susceptible to storm, tide, and wind events, has been critically eroded. Recent erosion has caused significant damage to the parking lot and now threatens the Concession building. 

This necessary work aims to maintain the area's accessibility for the public and is a component of a broader, long-term strategy to enhance the visitor experience.

While the three areas are under construction, all other Assateague Island National Seashore areas will continue to operate as usual. Construction is anticipated to last approximately two weeks, although this is subject to work and weather conditions.

For more details about the Seashore and other park activities, visit the park's website at www.nps.gov/asis or call 410-641-1441.