MAYOR OPENS CITY POOLS ON TIME

      Mayor Bill White today announced restored funds to the Houston Parks and Recreation Department in order for city pools to open on time this month.
      The prior administration cut HPARD’s funding, which forced the department to consider keeping city pools closed until July. Pool season usually opens over Memorial Day and runs through Labor Day.
     Thanks to Mayor White’s initiative, HPARD will be able to open 35 of the department’s 43 pools for Houstonians to enjoy this summer.
     “I’m grateful for Mayor White’s efforts,” said HPARD Director Roksan Okan-Vick, AIA. “Pool season is an important component to our programming and a tradition for many Houston families. I’m excited we’ll be able to provide a full pool season for our citizens thanks to the Mayor’s support.”
     The funding restoration allows HPARD to fund a full-scale season, with pool openings in May and June, running through Labor Day. As in years past, the department will open facilities on a staggered schedule, with 23 facilities opening on May 29 and closing September 6. The remaining eight will open on June 5 and close on August 15.
     The other eight pools in HPARD’s inventory will be closing for renovations or removals. All ten of the department’s water playgrounds are open year-round for splashing play.
     Additionally, HPARD has streamlined its aquatics operations, designating specific pools as either Family Swim or Aquatics Education sites. The department will offer swimming opportunities for the whole family at Denver Harbor, Glenbrook, MacGregor, Mason, Memorial, Stude, T.C. Jester and Westbury pools. Free swimming lessons for infants, toddlers, water babies and youth will be available at four locations: DeZavala, Hobart Taylor, Love and Lansdale pools.
     For information regarding HPARD’s pool hours, programs and operations, or registration please call the Aquatics Office at 713.845.1009.

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