Misquamicut closed to the public

WESTERLY, R.I. (WPRI) -- Westerly police have closed Misquamicut to the public until further notice.

The seaside community was severely damaged during Hurricane Sandy, with many homes damaged and destroyed by surf.  The public will not be allowed into the area in order to give homeowners more time to assess and secure their properties, according to a statement from the Police Department.

Residents or contractors who need access to the area must acquire a pass from town officials; the Westerly Chamber of Commerce will keep extended hours this week (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) to accomodate those requests.

Town officials also warned that National Grid must be contacted to reinstall utility meters and reconnect service if a home's meter is damaged.