SCHENECTADY — While city pools are unlikely to open this summer, splash pads are on the table.
But relief will have to wait until the city announces a specific opening date.
“We’re looking to open them up but I don’t know when,” said Mayor Gary McCarthy.
The city operates splash pads at Jerry Burrell Park, Tribute Park (Eastern Avenue) and another at Woodlawn Park, which opened last August to great fanfare.
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The state has left the decision to open pools up to local authorities.
City pools will likely to remain closed not so much to coronavirus concerns, but rather the pandemic disrupted the certification process for lifeguards.
“You have to get certified,” McCarthy said. “At least this point, it’s extremely difficult.”
The city outsources staffing to the Boys & Girls Club of Schenectady, who hires 45 guards for city pools and another 8 to 10 for their pools.
Shane Bargy, executive director, said the initial lack of state guidance on pools made it “impossible” to train guards due to safety concerns.
“Training requires contact with others when learning how to save a drowning victim,” Bargy said. “We are not anticipating operating any pools this summer as a result.”
(The facility does have some guards trained, however, that could run a pool this summer if the situation changes, Bargy said.)
Youngsters can still sign up for slots on weeklong summer programs beginning July 6 and running until Aug. 21. To register, visit bgcschenectady.org or call 518-374-4714.
Boys & Girls Club of Schenectady is also working on a plan with the city to possibly run programming in several city parks starting sometime in July.
“We are still working through the details,” Bargy said.
Additionally, the facility will continue to provide “Grab and Go” hot dinners in front of the center Monday through Friday from 4:30-5:30 p.m. until Aug. 21.
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Categories: -News-, Schenectady County
