It has been a while since outdoor swimming pools were open to the public in the nation’s capital, but that is about to change come next month.
The District plans to open them May 29.
“We’re really excited to reopen our pools,” said Delano Hunter, director of the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation.
While indoor pools require a reservation to get in, outdoor pools will allow people in on a first-come, first-served basis, with a capacity limit of 50%.
The deck chairs will be socially distanced, and people will likely have to wear a mask when they’re not in the pool, Hunter said.
Park officials in D.C. planned to open pools last summer, but Hunter said there was too much uncertainty surrounding the severity of the pandemic at that time.
Now, things have started to calm down. And many families are excited to have the option.
“We’re hearing from parents across the city that pools are an important aspect of their summer plans,” said Hunter. “They like the opportunity of having pool access as a part of their summer itinerary.”
Spray parks, commonly called “splash pads,” are also going to be opening May 29 at full capacity.
“They don’t require lifeguards; kids love them, and they are throughout the city,” said Hunter.
Find the locations for the District’s 22 outdoor pools and 27 spray parks.
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