Back to SearchAs summer vacation draws to a close and outdoor pools finish up for the season, swim fans will be excited to discover the St. Catharines Kiwanis Aquatics Centre reopens Aug. 31.
After months of closure in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kiwanis Aquatics Centre will open Monday with enhanced safety and prevention measures in place.
“Staff are excited to welcome guests back to the Kiwanis Aquatics Centre and our team has been working hard to ensure the facilities are safe and accessible for all,” said Aquatics Supervisor Jennifer Green.
New processes will require a reservation to access the pools. Guests can familiarize themselves with the new guidelines on the City’s website.
Guests will need to make a reservation to visit the pools for all swims via the City’s eplay portal. More information related to registration can be found at www.stcatharines.ca/swimming. As a result of COVID-19, swim programs will have a limited number of spots.
Lane swimming can be booked by calling 905.688.5601 ext. 1800.
All guests will need to arrive 20 minutes before their booked timeslot to check in, make payment, complete COVID-19 screening and sanitize their hands. Anyone exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms will not be permitted to enter.
Safety protocols and procedures will include limited occupancy to ensure physical distancing can be maintained. Change rooms will be open, but capacity will be restricted, and lockers will not be available. Guests are encouraged to arrive in swim attire and plan to change and shower at home afterwards. Spectators will not be permitted on the pool deck or in the viewing area.
Everyone inside the facility will be required to wear a mask or face covering, except when swimming or showering. Children under the age of five and those who are unable to wear a mask or a face covering as a result of a medical condition or disability are exempt.
There will be no pool toys in the leisure or lane pools. Lifejackets (PFDs) will be available and disinfected after each use. Flutter boards will be available for use in the lane pool only. Diving blocks will be closed.
To ensure equitable access to as many community members as possible, the maximum length of each swim session will be 50 minutes and guests are requested to only book one swim per day.
Modified programming is in place. There will be limited programs offered, including lengths swimming; water walking; women’s only swimming; leisure swimming; and soak and stretch. Beginning Sept. 21, the schedule will be modified with additional programs added such as fitness classes, swimming lessons, and some pool rentals.
Membership pass holders may choose to use their passes as payment toward the lane and leisure swims. They can also leave their membership on hold until further notice or request a prorated refund.
For membership questions, email aquatics@stcatharines.ca or call customer service at 905.688.5601 ext. 1800.
Hours of operation may vary, so visit www.stcatharines.ca/swimming for the most up-to-date information.
Please visit the St. Catharines Public Library website for the Dr. Huq branch re-opening details and hours of operation.
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