Big announcement, Denverites... we're about a week away from pool season!
According to Denver Parks and Recreation spokesperson Cyndi Karvaski, all 15 indoor pools will open next week, along with almost all of the outdoor pools.
There are 16 outdoor pools in the city and this season Berkeley Park's pool will remain closed for maintenance until further notice. It's unclear whether it will open this season. In the interim, Karvaski said swimming lessons will take place at the Scheitler Recreation Center. You can find full lists of both indoor and outdoor pools here.
The 2023 outdoor pool season begins on Friday, June 9 and is set to end August 19.
Last year, two pools were closed for maintenance: La Alma's outdoor pool and the indoor pool at the Montclair Recreation Center. And lifeguard staffing shortages kept five indoor pools closed for the season.
Hiring lifeguards remains an issue, but there's been no mention of closing pools because of shortages.
Karvaski said the department needs about 40 more lifeguards in eight specific locations:
- Athmar Recreation Center, 2680 W Mexico Avenue
- Aztlan Recreation Center Outdoor Pool, 4435 Navajo Street
- Barnum Park Outdoor Pool, 370 Hooker Street
- Garfield Park Outdoor Pool, 1295 South Lowell Street
- Glenarm Recreation Center, 2800 Glenarm Place
- Harvey Park Outdoor Pool, 2150 South Tennyson Way
- La Alma Recreation Center Outdoor Pool, 1323 West 11th Avenue
- Swansea Recreation Center Outdoor Pool, 2650 E 49th Avenue
The position is part-time at 39 hours a week and isn't eligible for benefits. Starting pay is $17.29.
"Lifeguard positions continue to be difficult to fill and we are always seeking qualified candidates," Karvaski said. "We can hire lifeguard candidates as young as 15 years old. There is a lot of competition in this area between other municipalities and the private sector, with the biggest barrier being access to training."
Karvaski said the department is offering free American Red Cross Lifeguard training for anyone "committed" to becoming a lifeguard.
"By providing training free-of-cost and ample opportunity to receive certification, we're hopeful that we can continue last year's momentum this summer," Karvaski said.
The lifeguard shortage is an issue that expands outside of Denver.
In Northglenn, retirees are diving into the lifeguard roles, frustrated with closings and delays at their local pools.
Providing free training is one of the ways the state is trying to squash the issue. A state grant program covers the costs of training and in May Gov. Jared Polis announced the expansion of the program.
If you're interested in applying to be a lifeguard, check the link here.
If you're looking for membership rates, day fees or just general rules, check here.
Happy swimming, Denverites.
