Update: Aurora Reservoir reopens but Quincy Reservoir closes.

Update: Aurora Reservoir reopens but Quincy Reservoir reopens.

City officials announced Thursday morning the swim beach would reopen for the Fourth of July holiday after testing done earlier in the day confirmed levels of E. coli in the water had decreased from high levels measured days prior.

The swim area at Aurora Reservoir  was closed one day before the Fourth of July holiday due to elevated bacteria levels.

Aurora Parks, Recreation and Open Space  announced the closure on Facebook, explaining that bacteria levels in natural bodies of water can fluctuate. The closure was necessary on Wednesday as the levels were too high, with an electronic sign at the entrance attributing it to E. coli.

Although the water can naturally clear itself of bacteria, it is advised not to swim when levels are elevated. As the holiday approaches, it remains uncertain if the swim area will reopen in time. The department will receive updated tests on Thursday morning, and if levels have decreased, the swim area will resume operations. In the meantime, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating activities at the reservoir are still permitted.