As the summer heat hits the city of Boston, residents are left wondering where they can cool off, with one-third of public pools remaining closed for significant repairs and renovations. Marta E. Rivera, commissioner of Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF), admitted that the city has not done a great job maintaining their public facilities, resulting in tired and poorly maintained facilities that are in need of repairs.
While some pools have undergone extensive renovations, issues like leaks have caused delays in reopening. Rivera stated that BYCF has more free pools open this summer than in previous years, with plans to open three more in September. The mayor has approved a capital plan of $34.3 million for pool repairs from FY24 to FY28, the largest investment in Boston’s history. BCYF also offers free swim lessons and life-saving skills through the Swim Safe Program to empower the city’s youth.
Despite the closures, BCYF continues to staff and operate pools year-round, with a robust lifeguard pipeline to fill positions. They have filled all seasonal positions and half of the part-time year-round pool lifeguard positions. Notable pools currently open include Charlestown, Jamaica Plain, Roslindale, Dorchester, Roxbury, Mattapan, East Boston, and the recently opened North End pool at Mirabella. Closed pools like South Boston, Chinatown, and Dorchester are expected to reopen this September.
With ongoing investments and initiatives, BCYF is dedicated to maintaining and restoring Boston’s pools for the community’s enjoyment and safety.
Source
Photo credit www.boston.com