LYNN — Work is continuing behind the scenes at King’s Beach as the City and its partners push forward on water quality improvements during the winter months.

According to APEX Principal Eric Kelley, much of the current focus is on documentation, inspections, and targeted screening designed to identify lingering pollution sources.

“Right now, we’re writing our big semi-annual report, so we have to document everything the (Water & Sewer) Commission did for the last six months,” Kelley explained.

This reporting requirement is paired with continued on-the-ground work aimed at building on progress made.

“And then we’re doing some additional field screening and drain cleaning, trying to get a few more building inspections completed based on what we did in the fall.” Kelley added.

Field screening plays a critical role in the cleanup strategy. When asked to clarify what that involves, the response was straightforward: “Going into the system and collecting samples, so just to keep it going forward.” The purpose of this testing is to narrow in on areas of concern, described simply as “hot spots.”

Identifying those hot spots is key to addressing improper sewer connections that can impact beach water quality.

“Hopefully, finding hot spots so that we can get it properly disconnected if it’s improperly connected,” Kelley said.

In cases where disconnection isn’t the only solution, the team is also exploring alternatives, including “coming up with other approaches to help.”

All of this work feeds into a broader goal that many Lynn residents and beachgoers share.

“The ultimate goal is to keep trying to clean it up so that there are more beach days,” Kelley emphasized.

As for timing, the effort remains ongoing through the winter.

“Right now, we’re just working on things through January, February,” Kelley said, noting that “we’re starting to plan for the spring.”

While challenges remain, Kelley stressed that everyone involved has been pushing forward, saying that “we’ve all been doing our best.”