Several people looking to escape the heat Tuesday were surprised to find the shoreline of their favorite swimming spot roped off. They didn't know Cicero officials had decided to close William's Beach for the season. Our Elizabeth Jeneault tell us why many are saddened by the decision.
CICERO, N.Y. -- Many say they love visiting Joseph F. William Memorial Park because it's free, easy to access, and it has great views of Oneida Lake. But this summer, swimmers have been beached. Officials decided not to open that area of the park because of concerns about water quality. While kids can still play in the sand, they can't get anywhere near the water.
"We were here a couple weeks ago and there were a lot of kids playing around there, it's kind of sad," said Eileen O'Grady, a Syracuse resident.
In years past bands would play at the park on Tuesday evenings, attracting large crowds.
"My band used to play here quite a bit," said Richard Depoe, a Cicero resident. "So, the people would be in lawn chairs."
Many say it's sad to see the beach so empty. They continue to question why it's closed as other beaches on the lake aren't.
"Sylvan Beach is open," said Depoe. "Oneida Shores is open. It's the same lake."
Many hope that officials will be able to get a handle on the situation.
"They claim they're going to do something about it and next year, it'll be open all year," said Norbert Redell, a North Syracuse resident.
For now, those who visit the park will just have to stay in the shade in order to stay cool.