Pools Opening- Update on McCarren and Pop-Up Pools Too!

We have had some steaming hot days already this summer so the grand opening of all NYC public pools this Thursday, June 28th feels long overdue. You can anticipate some  lines at the more popular pools when they open up for the season on Thursday at 11 am.

McCarren Park Pool
This summer Brooklynites have been abuzz about the $50 million renovation of McCarren Park Pool . The renovation has been completed and will open on Thursday as anticipated. I remember going to performances at the old pool- it was so exciting to be on the perimeter of the giant rectangle that was once the oasis for hundreds of Brooklynites. According to the New York Times, the former rectangular shape “has been turned into a giant U, with the placement of a concrete beach at its center.”  “(The) plaza is at the center of the pool, nicknamed “the beach.” It will be flecked with spray fountains that shoot water into the air, and become a skating rink come winter. It will also create three distinct swimming areas.  The new design preserves many historical details, like the grand arched entrance on Lorimer Street. The bathhouse, originally used only for changing and showering, has been converted to year-round use. One wing will house a recreation center, with a weight room, basketball court and cardio-fitness room, while the other wing will contain space for after-school programs and community meetings.”

Pop-Up Pool at Brooklyn Bridge Park
The pop-up pool at Pier 2 won’t open until the first week of July but it isn’t just a short-term pop-up: it will be around for 5 years. The free access pool is  30’ x 50’ and 3.5 feet deep and only 60 people are allowed in at one time, which means they will most likely have timed swimming sessions. I had never encountered this before Brooklyn, but it makes sense- and actually the 45 minute slots we have had seem to be just fine for small kids.

There will be a sand beach next to the pool with 25 lounge chairs and 10 picnic tables with umbrellas and a food concessionaire. The pool will be open from 10 am- 6 pm and though it won’t open until early July, it will still close after Labor Day.  Moderately priced learn-to-swim lessons will be available in the mornings from 8 am – 10 am

The pool will be accessible by all existing transportation options http://www.brooklynbridgepark.org/visit/directions

Brooklyn Pools opening on Thursday, June 28th