Background Information
Lake Michigan is the second largest of the five great lakes in the United States and the only one located entirely within the country. It stretches across four states – Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan – and is the largest fresh water lake in the world. Over 10 million people live within 50 miles of the 4,300 mile shoreline, and the lake’s clean waters have long been used for drinking supplies, shipping, fishing, recreation, and tourism.
As summer approaches, many people are wondering if Lake Michigan’s beaches are open. Unfortunately, the answer depends on local and state governments and their respective coronavirus regulations. In some places, the beaches are open with social distance rules in place such as small gatherings, wearing face masks and increased sanitation. In others, the beaches may be closed or limited to fewer visitors.
How Closed Beaches Impact the Lake Michigan Economy
When beaches are closed, Lake Michigan’s economy can be affected in a multitude of ways. Tourism is one of the biggest contributors of economic activity near the lake and is directly tied to the success of its beaches. According to the Wisconsin Department of Tourism, in 2018 the lake’s shoreline contributed to $1.6 billion of tourism economic activity and supported 20,000 jobs.
The shutdown of the hospitality industry has been difficult, especially for business owners who rely on seasonal visitors. Restaurants, hotels, and other businesses that cater to those visitors have been forced to shut down or reduce their staff and services while struggling to stay afloat and paying the expenses that come with the territory.
“The closure of our beaches due to the pandemic has had a huge toll on businesses that rely on tourism. We’ve been unable to open for the majority of the last year and for those that were able to open, there were restrictions and limited capacity which took its toll on workers,” said Amanda Kisi, owner of Lake View Café in Michigan.
Reopening Protocols
When beaches are reopened, there are often protocols put in place to limit risk and maximize safety. There can be restrictions on gatherings, wearing masks, and social distancing enforcement. In some cases, governments may opt to allow certain activities such as swimming but close all non-essential businesses.
In order to assess risk and adhere to preventative measures, local governments are also working with additional organizations. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), a federal agency, is partnering with local governments to help them understand the risks in order to determine the best approach for reopening.
“The CDC really helped us understand how we can begin to open beaches safely and responsibly. Now that we understand the risks, we can move forward with a plan that allows us to balance the health and safety of our community with economic activity,” said Joe Miller, mayor of Chicago.
Public Response
Public opinion on the reopening of beaches varies widely. Some are eager to return to the beach, while others are cautious and wish to limit their risk of exposure. There is debate and even protest around the issue, as some are pushing to open the beaches while others try to keep them closed.
“I understand that many people are itching to go to the beach and it’s not fair to keep them closed. However, I believe that we need to exercise caution and delay the reopening until we are sure that the risk is low. Otherwise, we can see a second wave of cases,” said Sarah Miller, a resident of Michigan.
Regulating Crowds at the Beach
When the beaches are open, managing crowds and enforcing safety protocols can be challenging. Local governments are exploring various solutions, from closing roads to limiting access and capacity. In some areas, beach closures may be implemented on holidays or weekends in order to manage the crowds.
“We are using a range of tools to control how many people are on our beaches and how they get there. We’ve closed roads and limited beach access and capacity, and we’re also promoting alternative activities such as swimming in pools and at home to discourage overcrowding,” said Jim Smith, deputy mayor of Chicago.
Role of Law Enforcement
Law enforcement is also playing an important role in ensuring the safety of beachgoers. Police officers are patrolling the shorelines, enforcing safety protocols and attempting to deter large gatherings that could impact public health.
“We are more visible on the beaches than ever before and we have been working diligently to make sure that everyone is following the rules and that the beaches remain safe for everyone. From a distance, people may not think that the police are here, but we are,” said John Roberts, police chief of Chicago.
How Beach Goers Can Help
Beachgoers have the ability to help in the efforts to re-open and keep the beaches safe by following the safety protocols set by local governments and not gathering in large groups. They can also support the lake’s businesses by ordering take-out or buying gift cards, and donating to causes that support workers in the hospitality industry in the area.
Financial Impact on Small Businesses
The financial impact of the pandemic on small businesses near Lake Michigan has been devastating. Without the influx of tourists and beachgoers, many business owners have been unable to make enough money to stay open.
“It has been incredibly difficult for small businesses like ours. We rely heavily on tourism for our income, and the closure of the beaches has been a huge blow,” said Jennifer Moore, owner of the Lake View Hotel.
Covid-19 Relief Efforts
Many organizations are working to provide relief to struggling small businesses near Lake Michigan. Local governments have set up funds to help business pay expenses and have provided resources such as free legal services, loans, and grants.
“We are committed to helping our small businesses stay afloat. We have set up a fund that will provide emergency business assistance and help them cover their expenses so they can continue to operate,” said Dan Greer, head of the local business agency in Wisconsin.
Perspectives from Experts
Experts have different perspectives on when the beaches should and should not be opened. Some argue that the beaches should remain closed due to the potential for spreading the virus. Others, however, argue that the beaches should be open with strict safety protocols and enforcement of those protocols.
“I believe that the beaches can be opened if safety protocols are in place, such as wearing masks, limiting contact activities and frequent sanitation. We need to be able to enjoy the lake and support businesses in our community without risking our health,” said Dr. John Williams, medical director of the Chicago Health Department.
Insights and Analysis
The decision whether to open beaches or not is a delicate balance between public health and economic concerns. Beaches can be places of respite, relaxation, and recreation but they can also be places that spread the virus if safety protocols aren’t enforced. It is up to local and state governments to decide when and how to open beaches responsibly and to provide the necessary resources to keep them safe.
Individuals also have an important role to play. By following safety protocols and not gathering in large groups, beachgoers can help support the local tourism economy and limit the spread of the virus.
