While a relaxing dip is a cool pool doesn’t seem like a necessity now, it will be prime destination in just a few weeks.
In anticipation, Elizabethton Parks and Recreation Department officials are getting the Franklin Pool ready to open for the 2014 season on Saturday, May 24.
The pool, near Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, is a target destination for families, teenagers, school and day groups and those just wanting to cool off and enjoy a day of relaxation.
Athletics Director and Pool Manager David Nanney said the department is preparing the pool to be opened in the next few days. He said maintenance employees are draining the remaining standing water and will repaint the interior of the structure before refilling it with new, clean water.
Nanney said all of the lifeguards have been hired and are going through orientation and training sessions before the opening day.
Franklin Pool rates will be $3 for a daily admission, with children under age 5 admitted free with a paying adult. All children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Season tickets will be $80 for 40 visits, and the pass can be used by more than one member of the family. Daily admission for groups of 20 or more will be $1.50, and adult supervisors of the group will be $2.
The pool hours will be 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday and 1-5:30 p.m. on Sunday. The pool opens on May 24 and closes on Sept. 1.
Parks and Recreation Director Mike Mains called on the public to assist the department in keeping the park facilities clean. He said employees frequently visited the parks to pick up the trash and debris from the pavilion areas, but that was not always enough.
“The guys work very hard but it just takes one family that does not pick anything up to make us look bad,” Mains said. “We need the cooperation of the public to help maintain the facilities.”