Tuesday was the first day that the city pools have been open for the summer. Many came to enjoy the water in the Hamilton Fish pool.
“Cold, but I’m fine,” Camila Garcia said.
-On a day like today
“Yes, Hot”
Several officials were at the pool this morning to welcome New Yorkers and discuss what pool operations will look like this year with staffing concerns.
“We’re also hoping the lifeguard shortage may also cause some of our pools to close. We plead with the community to understand that this is a national shortage,” said Iris Rodríguez-Rosa, Deputy Commissioner, New York City Parks.
The American Lifesaving Association estimates that one hundred thousand pools across the country will be affected, and city pools are no exception.
“Mainly due to low salary they have not been able to recruit sufficient numbers. There’s supposed to be 1,400, there’s only 700,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levin.
This summer, the Parks department has canceled free programs that include swimming lessons and exercise classes for seniors.
Officials caution that it could also mean pools could be closed one day or sometimes have limited hours, but they are doing everything they can to make sure everyone has equal access to pools.
Families expect minimal disruption.
“I come almost once a week. Sometimes on Sundays. For her to come and have a good time,” said Lisandro Bonifacio.
The pools are open 7 days a week starting today through September 17.
Expected hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
It is free, small children must be accompanied by adults… for more information you can go to the website nycgovparks.org
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