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Have concerns about College Beach Weekend? Now’s your chance to weigh in

Posted at 1:43 PM, Apr 12, 2018
and last updated 2018-04-12 21:37:27-04

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - With College Beach Weekend just weeks away, the City of Virginia Beach is working to get ready.

“Have a great time, enjoy yourselves, but respect our beach.”

That's Deputy City Manager Steve Cover’s message to the thousands planning to flock to the oceanfront at the end of the month.

The public is encouraged to come out and learn about how the city is preparing and voice their concerns. The first of two informational forums took place Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.

Last year, thousands signed a petition calling for an end to College Beach Weekend after four people at the Oceanfront were injured from a shooting -  the most recent violence in the historically troubled event.

However, it's not a city-sanctioned event, so Cover said they can't control who shows up.

“Our city is open and welcoming and we are prepared to take care of our citizens and provide a safe environment for people that are here. If people come with ill intentions of doing bad things, we’re gonna deal with that," he said.

College Beach Weekend is set for the last weekend in April.

The second forum is scheduled for April 18 at 6 p.m.

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