Dozens of swimmers gathered at Woods Pool Monday morning in anticipation of the first swim of the year after pool reopenings were initially delayed amid coronavirus concerns.
Lincoln Resident Drew Moats was in line for the noon session along with his son, Drew Moats Jr., and told KLIN News he’s not worried about the spread of COVID-19 at the pool.
“Me, personally? No,” said Moats. “Some people in my family are, but we haven’t really been too concerned about it.”
Times of various swim sessions, cost of entry and current capacity on display above check-in at Woods Pool
Resident Molly Burns was also in line with her two children and echoed the sentiment.
“I think that it should work fine,” Burns said. “I’m pretty confident that they’re going to do a good job of sanitizing.”
Parks and Recreation Program Coordinator Kent Stiles was present to oversee the reopening and said he was excited and nervous.
“Well, we’ve tried to, you know, think through all the different scenarios and until you really put them into practice you’re not quite sure how they’re going to work,” said Stiles. “ So, we think we’ve covered everything. We’ll find out today.”
Stiles says that in addition to regular pool rules, residents are encouraged to read up on added protocols put in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Examples include providing a name and phone number upon entry and mandatory temperature checks.
A list of pool rules related to COVID-19 can be found below:
- Upon arrival, patrons and staff will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms and have their temperatures checked.
- Swimmers will be required to shower in their swimsuits with soap before entering the pool deck.
- Patrons are expected to wear face coverings while waiting to check-in and to stay at least six feet away from others.
- Staff are required to wear face coverings when interacting with patrons and other staff.
- Patrons may bring drinks in non-glass containers. Individually packaged snacks are also allowed.
- Patrons may bring their own folding chairs.
- When pool capacity is reached, check-in will begin for the following session.
- Weekly evening family swim sessions will be scheduled at each pool. The sessions will begin at 6 p.m., and the dates will vary by pool. The cost is $5 per family.
- Evening water fitness classes will be offered at some locations begin at 6 p.m., June 17. The cost is $2 per person. Pre-registration for the classes is required due to limited space. Residents may register the day of the class by calling the pool they plan to attend.
- Learn to swim classes are being considered and may begin in July.