Framingham Beach Reopens As Bacteria Levels Subside

FRAMINGHAM, MA — Just a few days after Framingham officials closed Waushakum beach due to E. coli found in the water, the beach was reopened on Friday. Officials assured residents that the bacteria levels are now within the state standard and safe to swim in.

On Tuesday the water at Waushakum was tested, along with Framingham's other two beaches. Tests showed bacteria levels at Waushakum exceeded the maximum containment level of 235 Colony Forming Units — the water tested with 1600.

City spokeswoman Kelly McFalls said finding bacteria like this is not unusual in the summer months. "Bacteria levels can fluctuate based on temperature," she said, adding that the issue is not isolated to Framingham. "It happens to cities across Massachusetts," McFalls said.

Saxonville and Learned Beach were also tested but results came back clean.

Another round of testing was done on Wednesday and results were much lower, with 65 Colony Forming Units.

The beach opened on Friday to the public at the usual time.