Ed. Note: You can learn about renting a pool by the hour here.

From DPR:

“Today, August 5, the Bowser Administration announced that outdoor pools will not open this summer due to coronavirus (COVID-19).

“We understand residents look forward to escaping the summer heat at our pools. Out of an abundance of caution, and in consultation with the District’s public health experts, we have decided to prioritize the health and safety of residents,” said DPR Director Delano Hunter.

DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) operates 21 outdoor pools throughout the District, which have been closed since a public health emergency was issued on March 16, 2020 and will remain closed for the summer season. The pools will undergo the winterization process which includes draining and covering.

All spray parks and all indoor aquatic centers will remain closed until further notice. (more…)



Photo by Mr.TinDC

“Dear PoPville,

Would love to hear from readers about any options out there for DC residents to join swim clubs around the DMV. It seems most of them have restrictions based on residence. While you can buy a pool pass for MoCo pools, it would be great to be part of a private club community that is affordable.”

Another reader sends this interesting option from swimply “Book a local private pool by the hour”. Anyone ever use them?

Ed. Note: We are supposed to get an update about D.C. public pools on August 1st.



Photo by Kat

Kat shares with us over the weekend: “In case anyone was wondering how the fourth year of construction at Hains Point pool is going”

Kinza asks: “I am looking for adult swimming lessons in DC, I live in SW but I have a car so I’m able to travel. Any leads will be appreciated.”

Collective Impact asks: “Any suggestions for where you can swim outdoors in the extended DC area?”

Some early responses: (more…)



Photo by PoPville flickr user Phil

From DPR:

“Today, the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) released the 2019-2020 Indoor Pool Maintenance Closure Schedule. Beginning Monday, November 18, DPR’s indoor, year-round aquatic centers will temporarily close in phases, to undergo yearly scheduled preventative and corrective maintenance.

In partnership with the Department of General Services (DGS), the closure periods include pool drainage, water circulatory system repair, chemical controller service, and outstanding work order abatement. Pools at Dunbar, Ferebee Hope, HD Woodson, Marie Reed and the Therapeutic Aquatic Center will remain open for the duration of this winter’s maintenance schedule.

Indoor Pool Closure Schedule: (more…)


Thanks to John for sending:

The delays have irritated lots of people, but the scope of work to reconstruct the pool and pool house might cause many to rethink their frustration, especially considering the rain deluge last year and apparent utility complications.”

Ed. Note: “The opening of East Potomac Pool is currently scheduled for summer of 2020.”



Photo by PoPville flickr user akung

From DPR’s Doggie Day Swim:

“Saturday, September 7th at 12pm

THREE LOCATIONS!
Upshur Pool, Randall Pool & Francis Pool

Secure a spot

With the end of the outdoor swimming season, this annual event provides dogs with a one-day opportunity to jump in the pools, enjoy a swim and play fun aquatics games.

Admission is free, however all dogs must have a valid and original DC Department of Health (DOH) issued dog license (no photo copies) and tag to enter the pool. (more…)



Photo by PoPville flickr user C JRCook

Ed. Note: Stay tuned for details on the coming doggie day swim.

From DPR:

“The DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) has released the outdoor aquatic facilities closure schedule for the 2019 summer season.

Outdoor pools will close in waves beginning on Sunday, August 11, 2019. Pools will close for the season at 6 p.m. on their respective Sundays; with the exception of Banneker Pool, Francis Pool, Langdon Park Pool, Oxon Run Pool, and Rosedale Pool, which will close 6 p.m. on Monday, September 2, 2019 (Labor Day). (more…)


“Dear PoPville,

A number of people tried to go to Harry Thomas Sr. pool this morning at 10am only be turned away by staff who claimed that the 10am opening time posted on the DPR website and the door of the pool building (pic attached here) was “outdated information”. In fact the 10am opening time is supposed to be new this summer and Mayor Bowser had done a big press push about it.

I’ve so far had pretty fruitless attempts to contact DPR, my council member and the Mayor’s office about this. (more…)


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