Calgary to reopen 4 pools by appointment only this week
City implementing new COVID-19 safety measures at each facility
Four of Calgary's pools and rec centres will reopen this week — though new COVID-19 safety measures mean things will look different for those planning to go for a dip.
The pools reopening Friday at 6 a.m. include:
- Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre.
- Canyon Meadows Aquatic & Fitness Centre.
- Glenmore Aquatic Centre.
- Killarney Aquatic & Recreation Centre.
Michelle Tait, superintendent of operations with Calgary Recreation, said one big change residents will discover is the requirement to book online.
"This gives us the opportunity to maintain social distancing as well as manage the numbers of people coming in to our facility," Tait said.
Residents who utilize the pools must observe physical distancing rules and must bring their own equipment such as flutter boards, flippers and life-jackets. Snorkels, however, are not currently permitted.
Life-jackets will be provided for those participating in family swim sessions if necessary and will be sanitized after every use. Other areas, including those with weight and cardio equipment, will be spaced out to allow for further distancing.
A full list of the new safety measures, and more information on opening times, can be viewed on the city's website.
Though some indoor pools are set to reopen, COVID-19 restrictions mean only two of Calgary's outdoor pools will be opening this summer — Silver Springs and Highwood — and both will be operating with limited capacity.
With files from Helen Pike