South Shore Beach project completed after decades of planning

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- More than 20 years of planning and studies have culminated in a new beach at Milwaukee County’s South Shore Park.

The South Shore Beach Rehabilitation Project officially wrapped up this week. Work began after the original beach repeatedly showed high levels of E. coli bacteria.

Officials decided that the solution was to move the beach south to a rocky shoreline where water quality tested cleaner.

"This new design supports natural water flow, adds ADA accessible trails and improves beach access," said Sarah Toomsen, director of planning and development for Milwaukee County Parks. "It includes stormwater management features, and even a new foot wash station that you might see at the head of the trail."

Visitors will see some fenced-off areas still in place. Parks staff ask people to avoid those spots, so new plants have time to establish and grow.