Rockford Beach Park Weekend Closure

(Jefferson County, MO) Jefferson County Sheriff's officials are announcing the weekend closure of Rockford Beach Park, and its river access, this weekend. The park is located near the House Springs Byrnes Mill area and will be closed now through this Monday, July 10th. According to a press release from Grant Bissell, the Public Safety Information Coordinator for the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, this unfortunate, but necessary, action is attributed to recent visitors from the St. Louis region who have overwhelmed the ability of first responders to provide services to those in need. While this temporary closure is likely an unpopular decision, not addressing it would create a danger to visitors and first responders.

          Since Memorial Day weekend, Sheriff’s Deputies have responded to the park for various issues, including fights and physical disturbances, stealing, unlawful use of a weapon, assaults, underage drinking, and a drowning. With recent large crowds, law enforcement, EMS, and fire agencies have been unable to adequately provide security and support. Emergency response vehicles have been restricted from entering and leaving the park by illegally parked and excess vehicles. Once the parking lot is full, visitors park along the entrance road and on the shoulders of Highway W, potentially creating a dangerous situation for drivers, pedestrians, and first responders. Should a water rescue or medical support be needed, responders wouldn't be able to launch a boat from the overcrowded access.

          The Sheriff’s Office is partnering with the County Parks Department and local first responder agencies to develop the best short term and long term solutions to this problem. Meetings are scheduled with various stakeholders to ensure a safe path forward for Jefferson County residents who wish to enjoy their parks.