(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — If you are planning a beach trip in Wilmette, plan ahead because one is going to cost you.
A dune fence of wooden slats lines the perimeter of South Beach in Gillson Park, funneling swimmers and sunbathers to staffed entrances.
Tom Youngkin of Northfield had not seen the fencing before and said he doesn’t like the message it sends.
“I know, it just makes you feel like, you know, you're doing something wrong when you're really not.”
He has a tag so his golden retriever Violet can splash at the dog beach just to the south. That’s $240 a year for non-residents like him.
A daily pass at the human beach costs $5 for Wilmette residents and $10 for visitors - payable by credit card only.
The beach is free to those with a season pass. Information about passes is available on the Wilmette Park District website.
The Wilmette Park District said it added the fence last month over safety issues with people violating a swim ban and disruptive behavior.
There are now lifeguards and swimming is allowed.
One resident said she loves the fence because she hopes it will keep garbage and dangerous items out of the sand, where kids may find them.
Another says he’s disappointed it ruins the view for the elderly and disabled who sit on benches nearby since they may not be able to get down to the shoreline.
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