After its opening for the season was delayed due to COVID-19, Regina’s Regent Outdoor Pool is to open to the public on Friday.
“City council heard from residents that our outdoor pools are an important part of their summers,” Mayor Michael Fougere said in a media release.
“We know that people are spending more time in the city and taking a staycation, and we are happy that youth and families will be able to cool off and enjoy the outdoors at Regent Outdoor Pool and at our many spray pads throughout the city.”
The Regent, located on McKinley Avenue, is the only outdoor pool being opened by the city this summer.
The city has been opening its recreation facilities over the past few weeks, including things such as spray pads and indoor facilities like the North West Leisure Centre and Lawson Aquatic Centre.
The Regent Outdoor Pool is next.
According to the city, lane swims and leisure swims will be offered in timed blocks. Pre-registration is recommended and residents can do so up to three days in advance online or by calling 306-777-7529.
A limited number of walk-in spots also will be available.
The pool is to be open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is free.
The city reminded swimmers that they must maintain two metres of physical distance — including in the water — from anyone outside their household or extended household.
Work starts in Regent Park
The city announced the reconstruction of Regent Park won’t affect the pool.
However, the plan to turn the park into a recreation hub — featuring a multi-use sports field, accessible playground, spray pad, multi-use pathways, picnic area, off-leash dog parks and disc golf course — means work must be done this summer.
Demolition of the Regent Par 3 Golf Course has begun, with the clubhouse and storage building being torn down. Other work such as the relocation of power poles, the removal of trees and the grading of the site will occur on the site during the construction season.