Fourteen of Philadelphia's public pools are now open, and dozens more should be up and running over the next few weeks.
The pool season began Friday, June 12, the first day of summer break for School District of Philadelphia students. Mayor Cherelle Parker’s administration intends to open a total of more than 60 pools in phases through July 6.
"Opening our neighborhood pools is about more than recreation,” Parker said in a statement. It's about quality of life, public safety, and ensuring families in every community have access to welcoming public spaces.”
The Hunting Park, Kelly, Max Myers, Sacks, Gathers, Bridesburg, Marian Anderson, Lackman, Tiffany Fletcher and Schmidt pools began welcoming swimmers in recent days. Awbury and Jardel were scheduled to open Wednesday.
Kendrick and Jacobs pools are slated to debut Thursday, and 14 more are on the docket to open through Wednesday, June 24. A detailed schedule is posted on the Department of Parks and Recreation's website and will be updated on a rolling basis.
“Our pools and spraygrounds are essential community assets during the hottest months,” Parks and Rec Commissioner Susan Slawson said in a statement. “Beyond keeping facilities open and well-run, these roles create meaningful youth employment opportunities — giving young Philadelphians the chance to build skills, earn income, and contribute to their neighborhoods while helping deliver a strong summer season.”
Seven pools – Lonnie Cohen, Cecil B. Moore, Vogt, Feltonville, McVeigh, Lawncrest and Cherashore – will remain closed this summer for renovation. The sites are receiving a combined $70 million worth of upgrades, city officials said.
For information about each pool’s hours, swim lessons and other activities, go to www.phila.gov/parks-rec-finder.
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