Salem's New Forest River Park Pools To Open This Month

SALEM, MA — Salem is set to unveil its latest signature park project which is sure to be a summer destination for families throughout the city.

The new Forest River Park Outdoor Recreation Nature Center will officially open with two pools, a splash pad, a bathhouse, a concession stand and nature trails on June 18 following a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Clifton Avenue location on June 17 at 5:30 p.m.

"The COVID pandemic has revived and reinforced our shared desire for outdoor spaces and recreational opportunities," Salem Superintendent of Parks, Recreation and Community Services Patricia O’Brien said. "To see this transformational project, after years of planning and construction, finally come to fruition is incredible. Forest River Park and the pool have been treasured by so many in our community, it will be truly amazing to see it all come to life this summer."

The two pools include a shallower one for children and a deeper one for swim lessons, recreation and periodic racing. The splash pad has built-in public art reflecting the history of the park.

Salem YMCA will manage the facility.

"We are excited to continue our collaboration with the city this summer at the pool at Forest River as we support this incredible resource for children and families," Salem YMCA Executive Director Charity Lezama said. "We know it is important for residents to have a way to be outside, stay active, connected, and cool in the summer heat and our Y is dedicated to making this possible.

"The YMCA's No. 1 priority at all swimming pools and waterfronts is keeping children and families safe and we are committed to providing lifeguards and swim lessons at the Forest River location all summer long so everyone can have a safe and fun experience."

The center will be open free to Salem residents on June 18-19 and June 25-26 with day and seasonal passes available after that.

Private rentals will also be available.

"Forest River Park is a treasure in the City of Salem, and this facility is our community's gift to this and the next generations," Salem Director of Capital, Sustainability and Resiliency Director Jenna Ide said. "The Forest River Park Outdoor Recreation and Nature Center demonstrates that it's possible to achieve high goals for sustainability, historic preservation, accessibility, education, and resiliency, all in one signature project.

"I look forward to seeing our community swim, walk, play, learn about nature, picnic, and just relax at this incredible new center."

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)