Burlington Country Club to allow winter grounds access

BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP) — The Burlington Country Club, a popular spot for walking and sledding during the off-season, is going to allow the public onto its grounds during the winter.

Burlington Mayor Miro Weinberger says the club is planning to take down “No Trespassing” signs and will no longer prohibit public access to the property located in Vermont’s largest city. He thanked the club for its decision.

“During the pandemic, outdoor activity and access to open space is vital,” Weinberger said in a statement. “I thought the action was out of step with the coordinated and collaborative efforts that so many Burlington and Vermont institutions have taken to support public health during the pandemic.”

The private club posted the signs at the end of November. General Manager Jason Shattie said the club decided to crack down on non-membership access after incidents of vandalism and disrespect of the golf course. He says the club was also worried about liability.

The Burlington Free press reports members of the public decried the change on social media and also reached out to Weinberger.

The mayor encouraged people who use the property to “treat it respectfully, be mindful of any areas that are roped off, and avoid damaging this winter outdoor resource.”