WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Recreation Department is preparing for another summer at Lake Chauncy without lifeguards.
According to Director Jenn Kirkland, they did not get “nearly enough” applicants to fully staff the beach, so it will be “swim at your own risk” once the beach officially opens in late June.
However, Kirkland said swim lessons will be offered through an outside vendor. Details will be announced soon, she said.
During swim lessons, the beach’s bathrooms will be open; otherwise, those using the beach will have to use the porta potties in the parking lot.
Select Board member Shelby Marshall asked whether a senior in the tax work-off program could be a crossing guard and bathroom attendant in order to keep the bathrooms open.
Because there will be no lifeguards, the beach hours will be limited to Town Hall hours, said Kirkland.
Select Board Chair Patrick Welch asked whether those hours could be modified.
“It’s not as accessible as it needs to be,” he said. “I’d like to see it [the beach] more fully utilized.”
On the maintenance front, Kirkland said the lake will be tested regularly for bacteria and algae, and it will be treated for weeds.
Other summer programs
Kirkland said the annual block party is a go for Friday, June 28, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. The annual Independence Day celebration will include rides, food trucks, booths and music from the Reminisants.
The Summer Concert Series is also ready to go. Come to Bay State Commons on the following dates at 6 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.
July 9 – The Midtown Horns; July 23 – SNG; Aug. 6 – Holdin’ Back the 60s.
Also sometime during the summer – public meetings regarding the Community Center. Both Kirkland and Town Manager Kristi Williams said a schedule will be established once an architect for the project is hired.
For program updates, visit https://westboroma.myrec.com/info/default.aspx, or the department’s Facebook page.
