A brand-new public swimming pool that can hold up to 300 people is opening to the public at the Halifax Common on Thursday afternoon.
The pool, which is part of the new Halifax Commons Aquatics Facility, is measured at 13,500 square feet and is accompanied by a new multi-purpose room and water plaza with inground fountain sprays and interactive features.
Construction for the project began in April 2022.
According to the city’s website, the swimming area contains a six-foot deep end with roped-off lanes for lap swimmers, aquatic climbing walls, and a barrier-free lift to offer safe entry for users of all abilities.
“The new pool will feature a sloped, beach-style entry,” a release added.
Patrick McGrath, manager of aquatics for the city’s recreation department, said one of the unique perks of the pool’s design is that it’s a “zero-entry facility”.
“It starts at zero water and then goes all the way to (being) about chest-deep, that means it’s going to be safe for kids of all ages, families, and adults,” he said, adding that there are some maritime-themed “splash” features for kids in the shallow end.
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McGrath said that the aquatics facility will offer swimming lessons starting on July 17.
He said that the opening of the summer location has also provided an increase in summer job opportunities.
“We have about twenty young staff that are here to work this summer, whereas, in the old pool, we only had two people working,” he said.
As for the pool’s official opening at 1 p.m., McGrath said he’s expecting a big turnout.
“There’s already been some people strolling by and asking so I suspect we’re going to see a lot of kids in the pool today,” he said.
The new water plaza area, which replaces the Common’s old splash pad, is surrounded by new tables, seating, and benches under a grove of shade trees.
The multi-purpose room, which will operate year-round, can hold up to 75 people and will be used for live music, community gatherings, and recreational programming.
Shawna Shirley, another member of Halifax’s recreation staff, said the space will also be available for birthday party bookings.
“We’ll be able to provide a combo event with a swim and a space for birthday parties … and also have a small kitchenette that renters can use as well,” she said.
“Everyone’s been really thoughtful and intentional about making the space accessible and welcoming for our community. We’re just really excited to welcome people through the doors and show them around.”
New universal washrooms, change rooms, and public washrooms will be available to all park users.
“This project offers a significant enhancement for urban aquatics, recreational play, entertainment and is an outdoor oasis for residents to enjoy,” a release from the city said.
The cost for the development of the new facility was about $18 million.
Residents will be able to find swimming times on the Halifax.ca website. The facility will open at 8 a.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. on weekends.
The city said usage of the swimming facility will be free and on a “first-come, first-serve basis”.
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