By Sarah Opdahl

The Town Beach is the place to be this summer with long stretches of sand and a lovely view. New Fairfield Parks & Recreation Director Linda Lull is excited for families to  “access the beaches, enjoy the view and take advantage of the picnic area – right here in our town!” She and her staff are looking forward to welcoming residents of all ages to enjoy the amenities at the Town Beach, especially the brand new Beach House.

Having held a ribbon-cutting a little over a week ago, the new Beach House, which is fully Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant, just opened its doors. The new building includes changing stations, a packed medical room, ample storage areas, modern restrooms, a large staff room, and a lovely deck. “Built in 1950 there were several additions throughout the 75 years,” but nothing like the beautiful facility that exists now with new security features, excellent lighting, and even a water bottle filling station!”

Lull is looking forward to welcoming new and returning staff for this summer. She has a responsible group of four waterfront directors, multiple part-time lifeguards, two boat attendants, and two parking attendants staffing the beach this year. Lull shared, “Safety is our department’s number one priority…there are many behind the scenes challenges in coordinating the opening of the beach and marina.”

Ryan Lull,  Waterfront Director, who is a recent college grad who is currently serving in the US Army as a Second Lieutenant with the 1-114th Infantry. Also joined by Waterfront Director, Mackenzie Morus is a rising junior at Hobart & William Smith College, where she is continuing over a decade of competitive swimming. Finally, Waterfront Sub-Director Kyle Thomas is returning as a veteran Town Beach staff member, this is Kyle’s fourth year working for Parks & Recreation. “We have a full staff ready to keep our patrons safe. Many experienced lifeguards are returning. They continue safety and emergency drills all summer and their skills are amazing, with CPR and First Aid Certifications all in place!,” Lull shared.

The Beach is open 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. weekends starting from Memorial Day through June, opening full-time after June 14th  weather permitting. NF Parks & Recreation campers enjoy the beach until 1:00 p.m. each Friday in July, after which it opens to the public. Family beach passes are $95. and individual passes are $45 for the season. Daily beach passes are $5 per person.

Kayak rentals are available at the Town Beach House desk. A single is $10 per hour and a double is $15 per hour—ages 18 and up.

“We’re hoping for beautiful summer weather, community, neighbor, and Senior Citizen gatherings—seniors are free over 65 years,” Lull said. Pack snacks or grab lunch or treats from the ice cream truck that frequents the Town Beach.  Watch for news about the Annual Boat Parade, which is scheduled for July 11 at dusk. All boaters are welcome to enter their decorated boat in the parade. Lull is excited that the event has become such a highlight of summer on the lake, “This year includes a local band playing sailing tunes …..sure to please the crowd!”