Greenwood Beach in Evanston is expected to be closed this summer according to a release from the city’s Parks and Recreation Department.
The release cites a national lifeguard shortage as the main cause. Other Chicagoland pools and beaches, including pools managed by the Chicago Park District, have closed or delayed their openings as staffing levels remain a concern.
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“The safety of visitors and staff is our top priority as we work to provide exceptional lakefront recreation opportunities this summer,” said Parks & Recreation Director Audrey Thompson in the release. “Amid a nationwide lifeguard shortage and swimming closures in a number of Chicago-area communities, our team has focused on retaining and recruiting USLA-certified lifeguards committed to a culture of safety, accountability and trust.”
With Chicago currently in the midst of its second heat wave just this month and Tuesday’s temperature expected to break records, residents are going without the relief of their community pools.
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This year, the city has added 23 new certified lifeguards on staff but even with the new hires, staffing levels won’t allow for all beaches to be supervised properly. According to the release, closing Greenwood Beach will allow resources to be consolidated and spent at the other five beaches within city limits.
South Boulevard Beach, Lee Street Beach, Clark Street Beach, and Lighthouse Beach are remaining open and fully staffed. Lincoln Street Beach, which is operated by Northwestern University, is also open.
Residents can check the status of beaches and their hours on the city’s website. Those looking to apply for a lifeguard position can also do so on the website.
