Lake Nokomis' two beaches still closed due to high bacteria levels

MINNEAPOLIS — Beachgoers in Minneapolis won't be able to hit a popular lake this weekend, with both beaches at Lake Nokomis off-limits.

It's been this way since Aug. 19, when a sanitary sewer line backed up, sending sewage into the water. Signage at all beaches around the lake warns people about the dangers of exposure to the water. According to the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, the overflow has been stopped and cleanup is underway.

However, the latest water tests indicate elevated E. coli levels remain. The park board asks people to find their place on the beach and in the water at the seven other beaches in Minneapolis that are open for swimming.

With weekend temperatures expected to climb back close to 90, many will seek relief in the water. If it's the water you need to cool off, the hope is you head to city parks where pools, wading pools and splash pads are open for families to enjoy.

City park crews will re-test the waters at Lake Nokomis for bacteria levels on Monday in hopes things will be fine enough to open these beaches just in time for Labor Day Weekend. 

Here is the full list of open pools and beaches.

In:
• E. coli
• Minneapolis

Reg Chapman

Reg Chapman joined WCCO-TV in May of 2009. He came to WCCO from WNBC-TV in New York City where he covered an array of stories for the station including the Coney Island plane crash, the crane collapse on the city's east side, 50 shots fired at motorist Sean Bell by New York Police, and a lacrosse team assault at Fairfield High School in Connecticut.

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