LYNCHBURG — Splish, splash … the Moore County Public Pool will re-open on July 1. According to Metro Mayor Bonnie Lewis, hours of operation will be the same as the previous year: Monday through Saturday from 12 – 5 p.m. and closed every Sunday. They will also be closed on Saturday for the July Fourth holiday.

Because of the close contact required, the public pool will not offer swimming lessons this year.

Things will be a little different this year in order to balance the need to socially distance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Because communities around us may not open [their pools] this year and we have a small pool, supported by taxpayers, folks will need to prove they either live or work in Moore County for admission,” says Mayor Lewis. “You will only have to show that proof one time and we will keep your family’s name on file.”

Proof of residency will include: a copy of a water or electric bill, proof of attending Moore County schools, or proof of employment in Moore County.

Lifeguards will also be checking temperatures upon entrance. No one with a temperature of 100.4 or above will be allowed to enter. Therefore, pool officials ask that parents wait to make sure their children pass a temperature check instead of just dropping them off.

“No one will be allowed to enter with a temperature of 100.4° or above. If someone’s temperature reads above the limit, they will be allowed to sit and cool off a minute if they feel sure they are not sick and we will recheck it,” the Mayor said.

Also, due to safety concerns, masks will not be allowed to be worn while in the water. Mask will not be mandatory when outside the water.

“According to CDC and health guidelines chlorine kills most viruses while in the water. We will have someone available to wipe down vending machines and public seating on a regular basis. Soap and water is available in the restrooms for hand washing and hand sanitizer will be readily available as well,” said Mayor Lewis.

The admission prices will be the same as the previous year: ages three and under, free; ages 4-17, $2; and 18 and older, $3.

To reach the Moore County Public Pool call 931-307-4222 or to schedule a pool party call Pool Manager Erica Coons at 931-307-4189. Any questions regarding the new guideline should be directed at Mayor Lewis’s office at 931-759-7076. •

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