Statement About Opening Phoenix's Public Pools

Press release from the City of Phoenix:

May 12, 2020

One of the most popular City of Phoenix services offered to the community is its 29 public pools. Thousands of residents take advantage of aquatics programs each year through swimming lessons and simply enjoying a break from the heat. The city takes great pride in offering this service.

The COVID-19 pandemic restrictions caused the city to dramatically reevaluate operation of these facilities. During a typical summer in the Valley, city pools are open to the public six days a week
from Memorial Day weekend through the end of July. During August through Labor Day, 11 select city pools are open on weekends only.

In response to guidance received today from Governor Doug Ducey that relaxes standards for utilizing public swimming facilities, the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department will work with
the Phoenix City Council to determine a plan to safely operate its pools with the health and welfare of staff and customers at the forefront of concern. Once the City Council provides feedback, the Parks and Recreation Department must be allowed 30 days to prepare its pools for aquatics-related activities. It takes that amount of time to complete hiring and training of staff and to prepare the pools for swimmers.

The department is carefully considering all aspects of operation such as physical distancing standards and restrictions on large groups and gatherings. The Parks and Recreation Department will also follow Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines to ensure that it provides the
safest, most optimal experience for customers.

Follow the latest updates about the 2020 summer pool season on Phoenix.gov/Parks and the various City of Phoenix social media accounts.

This press release was produced by the City of Phoenix. The views expressed here are the author’s own.