Douglas Pool reopening pushed to early July; Parks will issue temporary punch passes, councilman says

Council member Morton told the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council on April 17 that the Douglas Pool renovation is now expected to be completed and ready to open in early July.

"So as of right now, the pool is slated to be finished and ready to open in early July," Council member Morton said during announcements. "My office and parks team understands that this is not the news the community wants to hear, nor is the news that I'd like to hear. ... I can assure you that parks will continue to work with the contractor and design team to have the center open as soon as possible."

Morton said Parks and Recreation will work with neighborhood associations and schools to provide free pool punch passes that can be used at other Parks and Recreation pool locations until Douglas Pool reopens.

Why it matters: Douglas Pool serves neighborhoods in the west and north parts of the city. The delay affects residents, especially children and youth who rely on neighborhood pools for summer recreation and programming.

What council heard and next steps: Morton said he toured the facility with a selected work group, community members and project managers to review progress and discuss programming, neighborhood staffing opportunities and engagement for the grand reopening celebration. Parks staff will coordinate distribution of temporary passes and provide updates as construction progresses.

No new funding changes for the project were announced on the council floor during the meeting. Morton said Parks will keep the council and community updated as work continues.