CORNELIUS -- There's a new place for residents to dip their toes into the cool waters of Lake Norman. And for many residents, it’s easier than a drive to the coast.
Mecklenburg County dedicated the Ramsey Creek Park Beach on Tuesday. It's the first public lake access in the county in more than 40 years. There was a ban after a person drowned, which has since been lifted. Lifeguards have been added to help keep visitors safe.
"We believe in full service,” said Mecklenburg County Board Chair Trevor Fuller. “So we will have lifeguards here to make sure everyone is safe. We want to make sure everyone comes and has a great time, but that they have a safe time, too."
If you forget to pack sunscreen, don’t worry. The park will have some to share.
"It's perfect for people who don't have access to the lake through a boat or living on the lake,” said Cornelius resident Lisa Kwiatkowski. “It's really what this town needed."
The beach project cost nearly a half million dollars and was paid for by the county. County residents will have to pay a $3 fee to enter the park; non-residents pay $5 per vehicle.
A grand opening to the public for the new Ramsey Creek Park Beach public access is this Saturday at 10:30. The beach closes at 7:30 p.m.