Learn to Swim for Free This Summer

The department is offering free Learn to Swim classes for adults and children this summer at all nine of the department’s public swimming pools. The classes are sanctioned by the American Red Cross, and all of the department’s instructors are American Red Cross Certified Water Safety Instructors.

     “In a river city like Richmond, it’s important for every child to learn to swim,” said Dr. Norman C. Merrifield, director of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities. “The river is such an integral part of our city, and it attracts so many people, that we believe knowing how to swim and understanding water safety is critical to the city’s population.

     “At some point, it’s likely that you or your child will be attracted to the river and visit our James River Park. When you do, we want you to be knowledgeable and to know how to swim,” he said.

     The free classes are designed for non-swimmers and will focus on an introduction to water skills, learning the fundamentals, and water safety. Each class will meet four times.

     The next round of classes for youth ages 5 through 12 and will begin on July 22. Morning and evening sessions are available. Another round for kids age 5 through 12 will begin on August 12.

      For non-swimmers 13 and older, classes will begin on August 9 and will be held in the evenings.

      Please register in advance by calling or visiting the pool of your choice. The department’s fun and friendly swim instructors are waiting for you!

Pool Locations & Telephone Numbers:

Battery Park Pool                   2917 Dupont Circle, 23231                           804-646-0127

Bellemeade Pool*                   1800 Lynhaven Ave., 23224                          804- 646-8849

Blackwell Pool                        238 E. 14th St., 23224                                804-646-8718

Fairmount Pool                       2000 U St., 23219                                       804-646-3831 

Hotchkiss Pool                        701 E. Brookland Park Blvd., 23227             804-646-3762

Powhatan Pool                        5051 Northampton St., 23231                      804-646-3595

Randolph Pool                        1401 Grayland Ave., 23220                          804-646-1329

Swansboro Pool*                    3160 Midlothian Trnpk., 23224                      804-646-8088

Woodville Pool                       2305 Fairfield Ave., 23223                             804-646-3834

*Indoor Pools

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