Back to SearchSt. Catharines residents can get ready to make a splash as outdoor public pools prepare to re-open as early as this weekend, with admission fees waived for 2020.
While other municipalities across Ontario have opened outdoor public pools, all pools in St. Catharines remained closed for much of phase two of recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The decision to keep them closed was based on safety of citizens, the costs associated with safely opening pools and whether or not opening them would have a large impact on our community. However, following near record-breaking high temperatures during the past few weeks, City Council voted on July 13 to open Port Dalhousie and Lincoln Park Pools.
“It is our first priority is to ensure the health and safety of our residents and employees, when we consider re-opening facilities, such as our pools,” said Director of Community, Recreation and Culture Services Phil Cristi. “However, St. Catharines’ residents continue to be diligent in their efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 and, as we move towards stage three of recovery, the time is right to soak up the summer fun at our local pools.”
Pools will open with safety protocols in place as required during the pandemic, such as additional cleaning throughout the day and reduced capacity levels to assist with social distancing. To ensure equitable access to pools at reduced capacity, swim sessions will be 45 minutes long.
Guests should note that no change rooms will be open. They are encouraged to arrive wearing swim attire and to change and shower at home. However, washrooms will be available.
The public is asked to do its part in curbing the spread of COVID-19 by adhering to safety protocols and procedures in place at newly reopened pool facilities. Visitors are reminded to maintain a separation of two metres with individuals outside their household, and that Provincial restrictions remain in place on the size of public gatherings.
Port Dalhousie Pools will open on Saturday July 18 with the hours of operation from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Lincoln Park Pool will open on Saturday July 25, pending a Public Health inspection, with the hours of operation from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Full details of outdoor pools opening can be found at www.stcatharines.ca/outdoorpools.
More information on facility and amenity reopening timelines can be found at www.engageSTC.ca/FacilitiesRecovery.
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