Growing crowds at one of Lakeshore’s busiest summer destinations has the municipality launching a free shuttle service to reduce traffic congestion at Lakeview Park West Beach. On Thursday, the Beach Bus pilot was officially announced, with the project beginning its first rides on Saturday. It is set to operate rain or shine weekends and holiday Mondays through Sept. 7, providing free transportation between the Atlas Tube Recreation Centre and the Belle River waterfront. “We listen to our residents and we also have seen a massive increase [in traffic] down this way,” said Vanessa Stratton, the executive director of community services for Lakeshore. “We want to make sure that not only the residents close by are safe and can move in and out of their homes with no issue, but also that residents from across Lakeshore have different options to come and enjoy our great spaces.” The shuttle is intended to reduce parking pressure while improving access to the beach, which has become increasingly busy in recent years. Stratton said the initiative is being launched as a pilot project, with the municipality seeking public feedback to help determine its future. “We’re looking for feedback, we’re looking for different insights into how to improve things and what the Beach Bus could potentially morph into,” she explained. “Ride the Beach Bus, give us your feedback, and we look forward to hearing it.” The municipality will monitor ridership throughout the summer before reporting back to council. Many beachgoers are welcoming the initiative, saying heavy crowds and precious parking have changed the way they use the waterfront. “We don’t usually come on weekends because it really does get really busy,” said Sandy Chevalier. “It’s generally during the week that we come and enjoy it.” Bob Renaud, who travelled from LaSalle to go kite surfing Friday, says parking can be difficult to find during peak periods. “Every time we come on the weekends, sometimes there’s no parking, so the shuttle bus will be great for the people coming to the beach,” he said. Longtime Belle River resident Helen Best said the area’s popularity has become a challenge for local residents. “It is so busy. The residents of Belle River don’t get to use the park at all,” said the 84-year-old. While she believes the shuttle service will help, Best expects the area will remain busy throughout the summer. “It’s going to help the situation for sure, but the residents of Belle River still can’t use the beach,” she said. Along with the Beach Bus launch, officials say Lakeshore is increasing weekend bylaw patrols at Lakeview Park West Beach and other popular destinations. Manager of bylaw compliance Bill Tetler said officers will focus on parking enforcement as well as park regulations prohibiting smoking and vaping, barbecues, and motorized vehicles, including e-bikes and scooters. “We’ve noticed an increase in traffic down to West Beach and Lakeview Park,” Tetler said. “There’s limited parking spaces, and it is creating some congestion in the area.” Tetler said the goal is to educate visitors while helping ensure the waterfront remains safe. “It is a beautiful destination, and our job is to make sure we keep it safe for residents and visitors to come and enjoy.” The Beach Bus will operate from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the final departure from Lakeview Park West Beach at 4:45 p.m. Riders can board at the southwest corner of the Atlas Tube Recreation Centre parking lot or in front of the concession and washroom building on River Street at the beach.
