Community Corner
Freeman Lake In Chelmsford Reopens As Weekend Approaches
Freeman Lake reopened after testing found high levels of bacteria in the water last week, forcing it to close.
CHELMSFORD, MA —Freeman Lake has reopened after regular testing found high levels of bacteria in the water last week, forcing it to close.
The Board of Health closed Freeman Lake in North Chelmsford on July 22, when weekly testing came back over the acceptable levels for humans and pets. A subsequent test revealed the levels had fallen back under state guidelines, according to Town officials.
This means the lake is back open for swimmers and is safe for pets again. Although the worst of the heat this week has passed,
Find out what's happening in Chelmsfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Sunny and a high near 92 on Wednesday, and Thursday but temperatures will dip down to a high of "only" 86 on Friday. Saturday and Sunday the weather service said to expect temperatures hovering around the mid 80s.
According to the National Weather Service, Wednesday and Thursday temperatures will get up to around 92 degrees in Chelmsford. The weather service is predicting temperatures to dip a bit into the upper 80s over the weekend with a chance of thunderstorms on Thursday and Sunday.
Find out what's happening in Chelmsfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Beaches throughout the state were reopened to the public as part of Phase 1 of the state's reopening plan in late May. The opening came with a caveat, several guidelines for visitors were also put in place to ensure the safety of those using the amenities and to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
The town installed signs at both Heart Pond and Freeman Lake beaches listing the state guidelines on May 22. But shortly after, several people complained to the Chelmsford Board of Health that beachgoers were not following the guidelines, prompting visits from department officials who saw it themselves.
In response, the Town of Chelmsford closed both beaches in an effort to promote public health amid the ongoing pandemic. Later, the town lifted the ban as more guidelines came out from the state.
This isn't the first time this summer the lake has tested high for bacteria and had to close. On July 15 the lake showed high levels, but reopened a few days later.
READ MORE:
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.