August 3, 2018
Accidental Beach has re-emerged due to water levels in the North Saskatchewan River. The City of Edmonton and Alberta Health Services (AHS) are sharing information for those who wish to visit the area.
Using the beach
The City and AHS appreciate that the beach is unique and that people want to enjoy the outdoors and spend time near the river. Although we do not encourage use of Accidental Beach, we understand people will be visiting the site. The following is information about the potential risks and use of the area.
The beach is not lifeguarded and there is no lifesaving equipment available in the area. AHS is not testing the water quality.
The City and AHS do not recommend swimming in the river, or participating in any activities that involve having your head underwater. This is due to the unpredictable water flow, sharp objects or debris, uneven or slippery surfaces along the riverbed, and quickly changing water quality.
Wildlife and natural environmental factors including bird and animal droppings and naturally occurring
E. coli
in the soil can contribute to higher levels of
E. coli
bacteria in the water. Because of this, anyone who swims in the river could get sick as a result. Exposure to
E. coli
can cause cramping, vomiting and diarrhea.
We recommend you avoid situations where broken skin comes in contact with the water. Always wash your hands and rinse your body after wading in the water and avoid swallowing river water. Anyone with questions or concerns about symptoms after spending time in the river should call Health Link at 811.
The City of Edmonton does not maintain this part of the River Valley, but has placed temporary portable toilets, additional garbage cans and bike racks on the maintained recreational trail near the beach. Please exercise caution when walking through the parkland. The entry point to the beach is not a maintained recreational trail.
Citizens are reminded to respect the surrounding parkland and neighbourhood. Peace Officers, Park Rangers and Edmonton Police Service will be actively patrolling the area to ensure safe, enjoyable and reasonable use. Note that Bylaw 2202 bans fires, alcohol, loud music and littering and allows access to the beach between 5 a.m. and 11 p.m. daily. It also states that dogs must be on a leash at all times.
Parking
Parking is limited to residents with a valid permit south of 98 Avenue between 91 Street and 96A Street. Parking on the north side of 98A Avenue is limited to two hours between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. every day from August to September, inclusive.
Unrestricted beach parking is available on roadways adjacent to green spaces along the southern portion of the neighbourhood (Gallagher Park, Cloverdale Community League and adjacent to the Bennett Centre) and on the west side of Cloverdale Hill Road.
Please note that between August 7 and 12, parking in the community will be restricted to Cloverdale residents and Folk Festival organizers. We encourage people visiting the area to use alternative methods of transportation as there will be no parking available during this time.
The new and temporary reduced speed limit from 60 to 50 kilometres per hour along 98 Avenue between 91 Street and 96A Street is in place as well as improved crosswalk markings at 96 Street to improve traffic and pedestrian safety.
