Laughter, splashing and sand castles returned to City Beach this week after being closed for almost two months following the flood in June.
City officials closed the beach after water tested positive for high levels of bacteria. In addition, debris washed in by high waters posed a safety concern.
But after multiple weekly tests showed bacteria levels returned to normal, the popular summer spot reopened last weekend with lifeguards on duty.
Routine weekly testing will continue to be conducted by the Koochiching County Public Health staff through the summer and into September. The test samples will be taken at both City Beach and Ranier Beach to ensure the water is safe for swimming. If future water tests indicate bacteria levels that exceed the level safe for swimming, City Beach will be closed at that time.
