Richmond, VA – The Department of
Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities (PRCF) continues to take the safety
and health of our patrons as a top priority. After careful consideration,
review of information from professional associations and guidance from federal
and state agencies, PRCF plans to open the City of Richmond indoor swimming
pools starting July 6, 2020. Outdoor pools will not be opening at this time. Funding
originally allocated for outdoor services will be used to support the Workforce
Development Program that was cut from the budget due to the economic cost of
COVID-19.
Swansboro Indoor Pool (3160 Midlothian Turnpike) will open for lap swim beginning on Monday, July 6. Operating hours will be from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Bellemeade Indoor Pool (1800 Lynhaven Avenue) will begin their Learn to Swim classes on Monday, July 6 at 9 a.m., with classes running each hour until 7 p.m. These classes will be free for the months of July and August only.
Swansboro Indoor Pool (3160 Midlothian Turnpike) will open for lap swim beginning on Monday, July 6. Operating hours will be from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Bellemeade Indoor Pool (1800 Lynhaven Avenue) will begin their Learn to Swim classes on Monday, July 6 at 9 a.m., with classes running each hour until 7 p.m. These classes will be free for the months of July and August only.
To
reserve time for lap swim or register for a Learn to Swim class, please visit https://parksandrecreation.richmondgov.com.
Learn to Swim class registration can also be done by contacting Erica Kirkland
at 804-646-8849 or email Erica.Kirkland@richmondgov.com.
The
Workforce Development Program is designed to empower 54 participants with job
skills applicable for entry-level positions. These workers will assist in the enhancement
of Richmond’s public spaces, which have proven an in-demand asset in the
Richmond community due to social distancing and home isolation.
PRCF is dedicated to
providing services an equitable opportunity to access services and programming.
During the 2019 summer season, the seven department operated pools saw an
average of 1,200 to 1,500 visitors daily. The logistical challenges of being
able to provide access at our outdoor pools safely this summer would severely
limit the number of patrons the outdoor spaces would be able to accommodate. While
this was a difficult decision, the department has determined that the
challenges outweigh the benefit to the few that we would be able to safely
serve.
For
more information about how the City of Richmond is responding to COVID-19,
please visit www.richmondgov.com/covid19.
