2025 South Beach Operations – Updated DRAFT Proposal

Regular Board Meeting Draft Proposal Updates – 3.10.25

On Monday, March 10, our Recreation and Lakefront Staff presented Version 2 of the 2025 South Beach Operations Plan to the Park Board of Commissioners and community during our Regular Board Meeting. This updated proposal was developed in response to feedback from the public and discussions with the Board following the initial draft presentation on February 24.

This updated plan builds on community feedback and Board discussions, refining our approach to beach access, safety, and environmental care. Here’s a look at the key highlights from the revised proposal:

Draft Proposal Overview

1. Operational Hours & Beach Access

• All Wilmette beaches (Main Beach, South Beach, and Langdon Beach) will operate from 10 AM to 8 PM to align with other North Shore beaches and allow for expanded staff presence.
  Accessibility:
  • ADA-accessible entrances with beach matting will be installed at Entrances #1, #2, and #3.
  • An additional beach wheelchair will be available at Entrance #4.

2. Cost-Sensitive & Effective Pricing

• Beach access fees for Main, South, and Langdon beaches remain the same as 2024.
• Group pricing is available for parties of 15 or more with advanced registration.
• Non-residents visiting with a resident will be charged the resident rate.
• Children aged two and under may enter for free.
• Exploring additional pricing options, including:
  • Discount days and special rates.
  • Library-based passes.
  • Twilight rates.

3. Lakefront Boundaries & Benches

Beach Fence:

• • Seasonal wooden slat fencing will be placed primarily along the beachside to guide entry and protect the dunes.
  • Fencing will be placed strategically to maximize access to shaded natural areas.

Posts and Rope Dune Boundaries:

• • Non-permanent posts and rope boundaries (4” x 4” cedar posts, spaced 8’ apart, with a single rope) will prevent foot traffic through the dunes except on designated paths.
  • Designed to blend naturally with the landscape.
  • Informational signage will be installed.

Beach Access Enhancements:

• • Access points widened for unobstructed views.
  • Five new benches will be installed within beach entries.
  • Regular evaluations will determine long-term usage needs.

4. The Cove & Dog Beach

Beach Sectioning:

• • The southernmost section of Gillson Lakefront (between the jetties) will be divided into two zones:

1. 1. 1. The Dog Beach – Designated area for off-leash dogs.
      2. The Cove – A No Swimming beach dedicated to non-motorized watercraft access.

Watercraft & Storage:

• • Relocation of trail-in watercraft launches (SUPs & kayaks) to The Cove.
  • 30 new SUP storage racks will be available for rental.
  • Users must wear USCG-approved flotation devices.

Staffing:

• • Two beach staff members will be present at The Cove during operational hours.

Public Access:

• • Free entry to The Cove with monitored access and adherence to rules.

5. Communication and Customer Service

• Improving signage, social media, and WPD communications to make planning beach visits easier.
• Scheduled training and in-services for all staff to provide consistent and updated operational support.

Looking Ahead

To continue to stay updated on South Beach Operations Plans, visit our Project Page for the most up-to-date information. We’re committed to making South Beach a safe, beautiful, and enjoyable destination for everyone.

We can’t wait to see you at the beach in 2025! If you have questions or feedback, contact us.

Committee of the Whole Meeting – 2.24.25

On Monday, February 24, our Recreation and Lakefront Staff presented the first draft of the 2025 South Beach Operations Plan to the Board and community during our regularly scheduled Committee of the Whole meeting. Staff crafted this proposal after carefully considering feedback from beachgoers, focus groups, lessons learned from the 2024 season, and a commitment to enhancing safety, accessibility, and overall visitor experience.

During the meeting, staff provided an in-depth overview of the proposed changes, detailing enhancements to improve scenic views, maintain affordable pricing, increase safety measures, and streamline beach access. Community members provided feedback during public comment, and Board Commissioners actively engaged in a discussion with staff, sharing their thoughts, concerns, and suggestions.

As a result of this valuable feedback and dialogue, the Board requested a reworked and more refined version of the draft proposal. This updated version will incorporate the community’s input and address the Board’s recommendations for changes. Staff will present the revised plan at our next Regular Board Meeting on March 10, where further discussion and community input will be encouraged.

Here are the key highlights from the original draft proposal, which focus on enhancing the visitor experience, preserving South Beach’s natural beauty, and ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all. These proposed changes are designed to build on past successes while addressing community feedback and operational needs.

Draft Proposal Overview

1. Improved Scenic Views and Environmental Stewardship

• Enhanced Visibility: Managed area fencing will be repositioned to preserve scenic views of the beach and lake while maintaining effective boundaries.
• Dune Health and Ecosystem Growth: Increased focus on protecting and nurturing our dunes and their surrounding ecosystem.
• New Seating Options: Five new ADA accessible benches will be added and thoughtfully placed to enhance your experience of the natural beauty.

2. Affordable Pricing and Enhanced Customer Experience

• Improved Communication: Clear signage, timely alerts via Rainout Line, and additional staff training for better customer service.
• No Price Increases: Admission fees will remain the same as in 2024.
• Special Discount Days: Enjoy newly introduced discounted admission days throughout the season.
• Family-Friendly Rates: Children two and under enter for free.

3. Flexible and Accessible Beach Access

• Free Extended Access During Non-Operational Hours: Visit the beach for free during non-operational hours while the park is open.
• Designated Entrances: Four clearly marked entrances will improve safety and access control—one at Main Beach and three at South Beach.
• ADA Accessibility: Seasonal beach matting at Entrances #1 (Main Beach), #2, and #3 (South Beach), with beach wheelchairs available upon request.

4. Upgraded Boundaries and Infrastructure

• Nautical-Themed Boundaries: A post-and-rope fence along the dunes to protect the area while blending into the natural landscape.
• Seasonal Beach Fencing: A 4-foot wooden slat fence behind the dunes for seasonal area management without obstructing views.