News Summary
The swimming area at Ebenezer Park on Lake Wylie has reopened after a temporary closure due to elevated E. coli levels. Follow-up tests confirmed safety, alleviating health concerns. The park, a popular spot for recreation, regularly tests water quality to ensure public safety. Officials encourage visitors to stay informed about water safety updates.
Rock Hill, South Carolina – The swimming area at Ebenezer Park, located on Lake Wylie, has officially reopened after being temporarily closed due to elevated levels of E. coli bacteria detected during routine water testing. The closure, announced on June 4, was a precautionary measure as York County awaited further test results to ensure public safety.
On June 6, the park was reopened after follow-up tests confirmed that the bacterial levels had returned to safe standards. County spokesman Greg Suskin reported that there have been no illnesses linked to the swimming area, alleviating concerns for the community and visitors alike.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that while most strains of E. coli bacteria are harmless, some can lead to severe health issues, including diarrhea, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and sepsis. However, the specific type of E. coli present in the water during the initial testing has not been disclosed by the county.
Routine testing of the water at the swimming area is mandated by state law and occurs every two weeks to ensure continued safety for those using the facility. The swimming area is a popular destination for locals and visitors, offering recreational opportunities in a scenic environment.
Ebenezer Park, which underwent significant renovations from 2019 to 2021, features enhancements such as a larger beachfront and a spacious 10,000-square-foot pier, contributing to its appeal as a recreational area. The park serves as a vital community resource, providing a spot for swimming, fishing, and relaxing by the water.
Officials encourage park-goers to remain informed about water quality and safety updates and to exercise caution when using public swimming areas. The county remains committed to maintaining the safety and cleanliness of the park for the enjoyment of all visitors and residents.
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Additional Resources
- WBTV – High Levels of E. Coli Close Swimming Area
- Wikipedia: E. coli
- Post and Courier – E. Coli at Ebenezer Park
- Google Search: E. coli swimming health risks
- Herald Online – Ebenezer Park Swimming Area Reopens
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bacteria
- USA Today – RFK Jr. Swimming in Rock Creek
- Google News: Water quality beaches
