Freeman Park visitors talk increase in park rates

CAROLINA BEACH, NC (WWAY) — Spring break is in full swing and that means a lot of people are heading out to the beach. This weekend Freeman Park visitors got a first-hand look at some changes this year.

The new park rates include $30 for a daily pass, $150 for a year pass and new this year is a holiday pass for $50.

Matt Gray is a frequent Carolina Beach visitor from Raleigh and he says the park fee increase could mean less people on the beach.

“Before the price increase on Memorial Day I mean it was packed and we couldn’t find a spot and it was loud all night. Jacking up the prices just a little I think really helped with that,” said Gray.

Deb Fizer agrees with that.

“I understand the pricing has gone up considerably from where it has been but I think there’s also a need for the pricing to go up just to kind of weed it out a little bit,” said Fizer.

Alexis Villagomez, who was visiting from Fayetteville says she does not agree with the fee hikes.

“I thought they were a little bit outrageous. You’re only out here for a day and you have to pay 50 dollars, which is a lot,” said Villagomez.

Beach goers will pay fifty dollars this weekend because Easter weekend is included in the new holiday fee.

Eleanor Deschamps is another frequent Carolina Beach visitor, and she says Easter should not be included in holiday fees.

“That’s a religious holiday and I understand that but not everyone celebrates Easter. And I think people expect to pay more on the three major holidays for the summer,” said Deschamps.