Due to record high lake levels and several severe winter storms, our beaches have sustained unprecedented damage in recent months. Below is a look into the current conditions of our beaches and what that means for the 2020 beach season. These plans may change pending future lakefront conditions.
Lloyd Beach
Current Conditions
Lloyd has seen the most severe damage this winter. On the north end of the beach, the lake has overtaken the existing steel seawall structure, rising past the boathouse. January storms caused irreparable damage to the boardwalk and boat rack structures. Portions of these structures were taken by the storm. The damaged pieces that remained were removed by staff.
On the southend, the water continues to erode the bluff. At current lake levels, the south portion of the beach is not useable.
2020 Beach Season: Partially Open
The boat launch/pier and a portion of the beach on the north end will be available for boat launching.
The remainder of the beach and the boat house will be closed. Storage racks will be relocated to the lower parking lot and made available to rent from Memorial Day to Labor Day at a reduced rate of $240 for residents. Parking will not be allowed in the lower parking lot. Portable toilets will be available to patrons. No boat rentals will be available.
Park District lakefront camps – Winnetka Water Explorers and Jr Sailing Camp – will not take place this summer. The park district’s Adventure Camp will incorporate kayaking and SUP into the curriculum.
Tower Road Beach
Current Conditions
The condition of Tower Road Beach is currently good. The extent of damage has been loss of some beach due to current lake levels. A large portion of the beach remains fully intact and useable.
As part of the Winnetka Waterfront 2030 plan, bluff restoration efforts and staircase construction is currently underway. This is scheduled to be complete late June.
2020 Beach Season: Open
The beach and concessions will be open this season. It will open weekends only June 6, then daily starting June 13.
While construction of the staircase and bluff restoration are underway, a new traffic pattern will be in place. This includes a three foot wide temporary walkway along the beach access road. The lower lot will be open for resident parking. The upper parking lot will be available to both residents and non-residents. Staff will be present to direct and maintain a safe traffic flow.
Maple Street Beach
Current ConditionsÂ
Similar to Tower Road Beach, Maple Street Beach’s current condition is good. Some loss of beach has occured due to current lake levels.
2020 Beach Season: Open
Maple street will be open this season from June 13 to August 23. It will remain a swimming only beach. The pier may be closed at times due to hazardous lake conditions.
Elder Lane Beach
Current Conditions
At current lake levels, Elder has lost all of its useable beach. The boat racks have been removed, and the foundation they sat on has been damaged.
2020 Beach Season: Closed
Elder will remain closed for the 2020 beach season due to lack of useable beach and potential safety concerns. The beach house will be closed and not available for rent or patron use. Barriers will be installed to prevent access to the beach.
Centennial Beach
Current Conditions
The extent of damage to Centennial has been loss of useable beach due to current lake levels. A small portion of the beach remains, but becomes hazardous during storm events.
2020 Beach Season: Open
Centennial will continue to operate as a dog beach this season. The beach will not be accessible when lake conditions are hazardous. During these times, signs will be posted and the gate will remain locked (even to those with key fobs).