Medgar Evers pool will reopen for lap swim and independent water fitness
December 9, 2020 Update:
Due to rapidly climbing COVID-19 cases in the county and state, the pool’s plans for re-opening are on hold indefinitely. We will continue to monitor and evaluate conditions, and will keep you posted when the situation changes.
Medgar Evers pool, 500 23rd Ave, will reopen to the public on November 16. Seattle Parks and Recreation will reopen one pool to the public for lap swimming and independent water fitness. The pool will be open 11:30 AM to 6:30 PM on weekdays, and 9 AM to 4 PM on weekends. Pool admission must be reserved in advance online or via phone 206-684-4766. The first reservations can be made on November 9.
The Governor’s guidance for counties in Phase 2 does allow for pools to reopen if they are at a reduced capacity and follow public health guidelines. For pool visitors that will look like limited access to common areas and lockers, mask wearing when not in the pool, and temperature checks upon entry. Additional safety measures for staff and the facility will include increased cleaning, temperature checks for staff and pool users, masks required when not in the pool, and two or fewer users per lane (with designated rest spots. (link to any ‘know before you go’ content on website). For more information about the WA State Department’s guidance on pool operations under Phase 2, please see here.
Compliance with safety guidance is critical to keeping this facility open and safe for all.
At this time, only lap swim and independent water fitness (independent water jogging or exercise) will be offered at the pool. We are not currently offering swim lessons, recreational swim, or family swim. We are hopeful that we may be able to add other swim sessions soon. For info about the pool schedule and offerings, see here. An FAQ can be found here.
Seattle Parks and Recreation continues to keep most pools closed. With public health restrictions, limited staffing, and a reduced budget reopening all pools is not currently feasible. As Medgar Evers operates more regularly and safely, we are hopeful that we can open additional pools and aquatics program as staffing and health guidance allows.