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Parks and Recreation sets May 28 pool openings, launches splash pads and steps up lifeguard recruitment
Summary
Columbus Parks and Recreation told council that four renovated pools will open beginning May 28, that two splash pads (City Services and Carver Park) will open in early summer, and that the department is running lifeguard classes and outreach to meet a target of about 125 lifeguards.
Columbus Parks and Recreation reported progress on new and renovated aquatic facilities and outlined an active recruiting campaign for lifeguards and aquatic staff at the April 22 council meeting.
Director Holly Browder displayed renderings of the renovated neighborhood pools (Rigdon, Shirley, Solomon and one more) and said the city plans a May 28 opening for pools (Wednesday through Friday 12 p.m.–6 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday 11 a.m.–7 p.m.). Parks staff also described the first city-operated splash pad outside the City Service Center and a second splash pad planned for Carver Park; both splash pads were described as being scheduled to open in the coming weeks with a ribbon-cutting planned.
Lifeguard recruitment: Browder said the department has been actively recruiting for months (radio/TV/digital billboards, school visits and job fairs) and reported the following figures during the meeting: the department had 52 certified lifeguards available at the time of the presentation, a target of 125 lifeguards (25 per pool, counting indoor pool), and approximately 300 applicants in the overall applicant pool by the time of the meeting update. Browder explained the American Red Cross prerequisites (150‑yard swim, timed treading, retrieving a 10‑pound weight from 8‑foot depth) and said the city provides certification training at no cost to applicants who commit to work for the city that summer.
Why this matters: Reopening pools and operating splash pads expands summer recreation options for families and young people; successfully recruiting lifeguards is critical for safety and for planned operating hours. Councilors applauded the progress and asked staff to continue outreach and to consider limited weekend or extended operations if staffing permits.
Next steps: Parks will hold a community kickoff (luau) the second week after opening, continue lifeguard classes in May and evaluate weekend schedules if additional certified lifeguards are available.
