Traffic, pedestrian safety and quality of life issues forced the town of Babylon to make Venetian Shores Park in Lindenhurst resident-only for the remainder of the summer, officials said in a post online.

Starting today, residents can access the park with either a beach pass, Yodel app pass, or a driver’s license showing a Town of Babylon address.

The policy will remain in place through Labor Day.

"This is a Town park first, home to daily youth sporting events, a boat and jet ski launch, spray park, playground, and beach facilities," town officials wrote on Facebook. "The growing crowds and resulting traffic were impacting not just nearby residents but the ability of residents to use the park as intended."

Babylon Town officials stated that traffic congestion outside the park, particularly over the last few weeks, posed a potential public safety risk, including concerns that emergency vehicles may not be able to access the area.

"That is not a risk we are willing to take," officials said.

Residents have told News 12 that part of the issue was Katch at Venetian Shores, a popular restaurant inside the park, that drew large crowds for food, drinks and live music.

But the owners of the successful summer spot said they're not to blame.

In a response to the town, the restaurant's management wrote a statement on their social media, saying they learned of the change through Facebook, adding that the new policy will have "a deep impact, and the ripple effects reach far beyond our business."

"While we respect and must comply with the town's directives, we believe there could have been a more collaborative solution to balance the sentiments of residents and customers alike," management wrote online.

As a result, the restaurant said it will have to cut jobs for over 60 summer employees, including many local teens and college students. Town officials said they're willing to offer jobs to affected employees at Babylon beaches and pools for the rest of the summer.

The business claims the town requested they cancel all music for the remainder of the summer.

"Which we know may affect your plans," the business wrote.

The town said, "While ideas were shared on how to reduce the impact on the neighborhood — including suggestions related to entertainment programming and potential alternative venues — those decisions remain with the business."

Town officials said they will evaluate all possible scenarios during the off-season to find the best long-term approach going forward.

"Our goal remains the same: to protect the quality of life for our residents while maintaining opportunities for recreation and enjoyment," they said.

Over the weekend, the town and restaurant declined interviews and referred News 12 to their statements posted online. News 12 followed up again early this morning with requests for both parties to speak on camera but has not yet heard back.