Philadelphia’s public pools are making a splash once again, with dozens set to reopen for the summer season starting Friday, June 13.
According to Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Commissioner Susan Slawson, more than 60 available public pools will open on a rolling basis across the city. The first pool opening will take place Friday, June 13, at 1.p.m. at Hunting Park Pool, 900 Hunting Park Ave.
Hunting Park is one of a dozen pools selected for enhancements through Swim Philly, citywide improvement initiative backed by a three-year grant from the William Penn Foundation. The project aims to transform select pool sites with community-centered design enhancements to create more welcoming and functional public spaces.
However, nine pools will not open this summer, due to ongoing construction or repairs: 12th & Cambria, Amos, Baker, Cecil B. Moore, Cohen (Hillside), F.J. Myers, McVeigh, Sample, and Ziehler.
Nearly 400 lifeguards and pool maintenance attendants have been hired to keep pools safe this summer. Free swim lessons are available for children, and select pools will offer swim lessons for adults. Also, all pools will once again host swim lessons for Parks & Rec’s 6,000 summer campers.
City officials remind parents and caregivers that they are responsible for watching their children in the pool deck and any child under the age of eight must be within arms reach of their parent or guardian at all times when in the water.
“Everyone deserves a safe place to cool off during the hottest months, regardless of their neighborhood,” said Susan Slawson, Parks and Rec Commissioner. “Thanks to the commitment of nearly 400 lifeguards and pool maintenance attendants, we are on track to open our pools as planned this summer. The hard work of our Parks and Recreation team and city leaders ensures these spaces are safe, welcoming, and well-maintained.”
