Pleasure Beach Closed 2025 Over Ticks, Health Risks

Bridgeport's Pleasure Beach and its fishing pier will remain closed for the entire 2025 summer season after multiple tick species, including the invasive Asian longhorned tick, were found on the island. City officials cited urgent public health concerns, noting that the ticks can reproduce rapidly and transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and other tick-borne illnesses. The closure also aims to protect the increasing number of nesting protected Audubon bird species by reducing human interference and supporting conservation efforts. Comprehensive treatment and containment measures will be implemented, with ongoing monitoring to ensure safety. Officials hope to reopen the area in summer 2026 once risks are managed. Residents are advised to use other local beaches and practice tick prevention measures.