Chicagoans heading to the lakefront this weekend – or anytime soon – might notice a change.
Automatic gates have been installed at 10 beaches, the Chicago Park District confirmed to NBC Chicago.
Paying to park at the beach isn’t new, but the gates mark a renewed push to enforce it.
The park district said it provided notice to local park advisory councils and aldermen prior to the changes, and signage was posted at each affected lot.
“The recent changes, including an automated gate system, simply modernize how payment is managed and enforced,” the Chicago Park District stated. ” Importantly, parking rates have not increased as a result of these upgrades.”
Under the new policy, a 15-minute grace period is offered until charges start. Charges max out around $24.
The fees are expected to generate $9.4 million dollars in revenue for the Chicago Park District this year.
