One of Waterloo's two public pools is scheduled to open for recreational swimming this weekend.

According to a press release, the Byrnes Park pool will be open for the summer on Saturday. The facility's layout may be modified due to COVID-19 guidelines, city officials said.

Patrons are expected to take personal responsibility by following all recommendations outlined by the Iowa Department of Public Health. Those guidelines include: social distancing (in the pool, on the deck, in the locker/restrooms), frequent hand-washing, practicing proper respiratory etiquette, and staying home if exhibiting any COVID-19, cold or flu-like symptoms.

City officials said staff will be taking appropriate measures to ensure facility cleanliness. They'll also monitor social distancing.

Facility usage will be limited to 300 patrons until June 30. City officials plan to re-evaluate the usage at then and make necessary adjustments.

Hours of operation for the pool at Byrnes Park are as follows:

OPEN SWIMMING

  • Monday – Friday: 1 PM – 4:30 PM & 6:30-8:30 PM
  • Saturday & Sunday: 1 PM – 4:30 PM & 5:30 – 7:30 PM

LAP SWIMMING

  • Monday – Friday: 8 – 9:30 AM & 12:30 – 1 PM

According to city officials, 2020 season pool passes will be available at the Cedar Valley SportsPlex downtown starting Thursday (June 11). Passes are valid at the Byrnes Park pool only. Pool passes provide admission to open swim, family swim and lap swims as age appropriate. Passes have been prorated to accommodate a shortened swim season.

Swimming pools across Iowa have remained closed this year as part of Gov. Kim Reynolds' strategy to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. She eased the restriction on Wednesday.

While the Byrnes Park pool is opening this weekend, Waterloo's other public pool at Gates Park will be closed for the entire 2020 season. City officials said the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted their ability to provide adequate staffing.

For questions, please contact us at 319-291-0165 or follow updates on the website at CVSportsPlex.org.

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