A little rain and a cloudy sky wasn’t enough to keep Edmontonians away from the accidental beach Friday afternoon for the 630 CHED Endless Summer Accidental Beach Party!
Over 100 people joined Ryan Jespersen at the beach in the river valley for some games and mingling with the 630 CHED host.
WATCH BELOW: As a way to celebrate the end of summer, 630 CHED held a beach party at accidental beach on Friday. Mike Sobel talks to beach party host, Ryan Jespersen, and has your weather forecast.
Beachgoer Patricia Drovandi said it’s a shame the beach won’t be a permanent fixture.
“I was born in Edmonton and have lived in Edmonton all of my life, with the exception of maybe a year or two,” Drovandi said. “I just really feel like this should be something that we can keep but I know we can’t. We asked who to petition for this and apparently it’s the federal government.”
Drovandi added Edmontonians should get down to the beach and enjoy it while they can.
Emilia Leung said it’s a nice addition to the river valley.
“Honestly, it’s really nice,” Leung said. “It’s great that Edmontonians have a place within the city to escape to. I’m sure we’re driving the entire neighbourhood nuts, because they pay a lot of money to have peace and quiet, and now hordes are descending upon them. I’m pretty sure they didn’t know they were setting up their house beside a beach. But having said that, I think it’s only a temporary thing.”
While many Edmontonians have been excited by the new beach, neighbours have raised concerns about lack of enforcement when it comes to litter and parking.
The accidental beach was formed as a result of LRT construction in the river valley. It has quickly become a popular attraction for both Edmontonians and visitors.
City staff are compiling a report on what will be needed to keep the beach. That’s expected to be finalized after the municipal election Oct. 16.