No need to jet off to a tropical destination to enjoy a dip in a balmy 27C pool when you can head to Moody Park Outdoor pool.
The outdoor pool in Moody Park will be opening on Saturday, April 22, and will remain open until Oct. 1.
“Last weekend the whole aquatic team was up at Moody Park Pool for the yearly in-service training,” said Stephanie Trasolini, manager of recreation services and facilities – təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre. “The staff are all very excited to be back for another extended outdoor pool season and looking forward to seeing the community back in the facility on Saturday April 22, our opening day.”
Trasolini said the pool operations and facilities team has been hard at working getting Moody Park Outdoor Pool ready for opening day.
“The exterior of the building has a fresh coat of paint and a refreshed look for the 2023 extended outdoor pool season,” she said. “Two large tents have been setup on deck to provide covered areas for our users and the water is heated to 27 degrees Celsius to ensure a comfortable swim in the cooler season.”
In March, staff updated city council about the “hybrid” approach being taken at Moody Park and Hume Park outdoor pools this year, with a continuation of the reserved system for those who want a guaranteed swimming spot (something introduced because of COVID) and the addition of 20 per cent of swim spaces for drop-in visitors. Staff also told council that approach could be tweaked if needed as the season unfolds.
According to the city, swim sessions are 1.5 hours in length and include leisure swimming, lane swimming and Aquafit. Change rooms and lockers are available for use.
Reservations are highly recommended as there will be limited drop-in spaces available each session. Reservations are available three days in advance for New Westminster residents, and two days in advance for everyone.
The City of New Westminster expects to announce details for Hume Park Outdoor Pool in early May.
Admission to the outdoor pool is free for little ones aged zero to three and $2 for four and up. Aquafit costs $4.75 for 13 to 18 years, $6.85 for 19 to 64 years and $5 for 65 and older.
For more information and to book a swimming session call 604-777-5100 or visit: newwestcity.ca/outdoor-pools.
Follow Theresa McManus on Twitter @TheresaMcManus
Email tmcmanus@newwestrecord.ca
