School’s out—and that means the pool is open

Staff

School’s out—and that means the pool is open
Parks workers were busy putting the final touches on Sunset Park Pool Thursday afternoon.

While summer technically began on June 20, for many NYC kids it doesn’t feel official until the last day of school and the first day of pool season.

After the final school bell and tearful goodbyes to teachers and friends, many students headed to Sunset Park on Thursday afternoon, where Parks workers have been busy preparing the pool for the last couple of weeks. Some noticed that the water didn’t appear its usual welcoming blue, but had a darker tinge.

Parks officials confirmed the pool needed to be drained and refilled. While they would not elaborate on the issue, one Parks worker assured, "The pool is definitely going to be open tomorrow."

While swimmers can expect long lines throughout a summer that experts say will bring above-normal temperatures, lines may be shorter this Friday, with temperatures forecasted to stay in the upper 60s and low 70s under cloudy skies.

Of course, there are always those determined to brave Sunset Park’s famously chilly, 1-million-gallon pool.

"I don't care what the weather is like," said one middle schooler resting after a pickup soccer game Thursday afternoon. "I’ll be at the pool."

Like last year, swimmers will need to enter through the splashpad on the north side of the recreation center. The main entrance remains closed due to the ongoing $11.5 million Bathhouse Reconstruction capital project, now expected to be completed in the fall.

If you’re planning to take a dip, be sure to bring a durable lock to secure your valuables. Swimsuits are required, and no electronics, food, pool toys, or colored shirts are allowed on the pool deck.

Veteran pool-goers advise arriving "swim ready"—already wearing your swimsuit and carrying only essentials like a towel, sunscreen, and water. A book or magazine is also allowed.

Pool hours are 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily, with a cleaning break from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The season runs through September 7. Admission is free.