Wittenburg Swim Beach reopens

By Editor | July 7, 2026 |

Water quality tests are in and the Wittenburg Access Swim Beach in Bethlehem reopened today, July 7, 2026.

While the swim beach is normally closed on Wednesdays, the beach will be open on July 8 and the rest of the week, according to Alexander County Public Information Director Gary Herman.

The swim beach had been closed on Monday, June 29, following the discovery of a wastewater pump station failure that morning. The closure was done as a precaution to protect public health.
Later that day, the City of Hickory announced that approximately 6,080 gallons of untreated wastewater had been discharged into Lake Hickory near the swim beach.

Alexander County collected water samples on Tuesday, June 30, and received the test results on Wednesday morning, which showed slightly elevated bacteria levels. Additional water samples were collected on Wednesday, with results expected Thursday morning.

Bacteria levels failed to fall within Duke Energy’s established safety guidelines, so the county kept the swim beach closed for the Fourth of July weekend.

County staff said the safety of residents and visitors remains their top priority, and staff appreciate the public’s patience as they continue to monitor water quality.

For the latest updates, follow the Wittenburg Swim Beach on Facebook at www.facebook.com/wittenburgswimbeach.