WS Chronicle

With the city pools and newly built spraygrounds opening up Memorial Day weekend, city officials want everyone to be safe while having fun.  Several years ago the city implemented several new rules to protect people who wish to enjoy the city pools.

The city pools will also offer free children’s swim lessons in July.  Swim lessons for adults are going on now at all swimming pools, and city officials urge people to contact their local pool to register for lessons.  Most of the pools around the city are open from noon until 6 p.m. 

Along with lessons, the pools will offer life jackets for non-swimmers less than 48 inches tall.  Some children also will be required to take a swim test that involves treading water and swimming a set distance.  Color-coded wristbands will be issued so the lifeguards know who is supposed to be in designated swim areas. 

Latoya Price of the Recreation and Parks department says the spraygrounds were part of the city’s bond project back in 2014 to enhance the aquatics program around the city.  She says the pool rules were put into effect to protect the public while they enjoy the aquatic facilities.

Spraygrounds are currently open at Little Creek, Hathaway and Reynolds parks.  They have been a big hit with the community and the kids seem to really enjoy them. 

Reynolds Park is the latest to open. Antonia Imes, who lives in the area, says it was a great idea and will continue to bring her kids to the spraygrounds.

“It’s really nice that the city has built these parks for the kids to enjoy,” Imes said.  “The fact they are free for everyone to enjoy is great and as you can see, the kids really like them.  These are going to be just as popular as the pools, especially for kids who can’t swim.”

There are six more spraygrounds in the works around the city.  They are open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. 

For complete information about the aquatics program, pool calendars and hours and dates for swim lessons, visit www.WePlay.ws or call CityLink at 311.