Gilley Pool opens Saturday:Civic Center set for summer splash
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Over the past two years, the pool has had almost 65,000 visitors, with almost 34,000 swimmers last year and about 31,000 swimmers during its first year of operation in 2003.
“It’s supposed to be 80 degrees, so we’re looking forward to a great first weekend,” Parks and Recreation director Carlene Brown said of opening-day expectations.
While it may seem early in the year to open the pool, officials have decided to open it in conjunction with the end of the school year. Last year, the pool opened May 22.
“We have never opened this early in the history of this department, but since school gets out early, we’re going to try to accommodate our school schedule,” Brown said, adding special events are planned for next weekend in conjunction with Memorial Day events.
Pool admission varies from between $3 and $5 depending upon age and residency. Admission for groups of 10 or more is $3 each person. Pool passes are also available for those who use the pool frequently.
The American Red Cross’ Learn to Swim program will be offered again this year and registration is planned for June 30 at 5 p.m. Unlike previous years at the old city pool, Brown said there is no need to plan for hours of waiting in line to secure a spot because the new pool has a capacity of 800.
“With the new pool and the larger space, we have been able to accommodate everybody,” she said.
Water aerobics and lap swimming are also being offered again this year. Aerobics is planned to be offered Monday through Friday at 9 a.m. and on some evenings, with lap swimming for $1 offered at 9 a.m. on weekdays.
The pool is expected to close around Labor Day. Since school starts in early August this year, Brown noted there will be modified hours of operations between early August and Labor Day, but exact hours have yet to be determined.
Pool hours
M-F: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday:
10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sunday:
1 to 6 p.m.