MILWAUKEE — While COVID-19 cases are on the rise across the nation and Wisconsin, people are trying to figure out a balance between enjoying summer and staying safe.
In Milwaukee, Bradford Beach continues to draw large crowds. Many are not wearing masks or maintaining social distance.
Jean Konen was riding his bike past the beach on Saturday afternoon and tried to keep away from the crowds. He said believes there a spike in cases is imminent.
"Oh, for sure," Konen said.
Others acknowledged they might be risking their health by going near the crowds.
"We're not making the best decisions," said Isabel Mathews.
"It's Saturday, I work five a week, I need to enjoy my weekend a little bit," said Matt McGinty.
"Besides this, it's not like we go out all the time," Mathews said. "Like during the week we stay home."
"I don't go to anything else," McGinty said. "The only time I get to enjoy a little bit is the beach."
Data from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services shows Wisconsin saw its third highest daily case total Saturday at 539 new confirmed cases. The percentage of positive cases continues to go up statewide as well.
Data shows people in their twenties account for more cases than any other age group in the state. Health officials continue to warn young people about the risk of COVID-19, and how they need to do their part to help stop the spread.
"There’s no rules to stop people they’re going to keep going I mean it shows right here there’s no rules to stop anyone here," McGinty said.
Meanwhile, the lakefront drew plenty of families who just wanted to do something fun together on a nice day.
Kenneth Utsey took his family out for a bike ride Saturday. He says he's not concerned about the crowds because he's keeping his distance. He says he's "slacking" by not wearing a mask, but says he still takes the virus seriously.
"I definitely believe the spike is coming," Utsey said. "It didn’t disappear into thin air so you still gotta take precautions."
