With the mercury pushing the levels of comfort this summer, you’ll be glad to know that area pools have been given the go ahead to open. But before you grab your suit and head off to jump in the water, there are a few things you should know. First off, come dressed to swim. Many locker rooms and other shared spaces are closed due to the pandemic. Also you’ll need a reservation.
That said, there’s no evidence that the coronavirus spreads through water in pools (or hot tubs, spas, or water play areas), per the CDC. Plus, if you’re swimming in a pool with chlorine, the risk of contracting the virus is even lower. This does not mean you can ignore social distancing protocols, but should give you some solace while taking a dip. Read on for more specifics on each local pool.
KILLINGTON
Herbert Johnson’s Pool
In Killington, the Herbert Johnson Pool’s opening day was Monday, July 6. Hours of operation will be Monday-Sunday 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
In order to comply with state guidelines during Covid-19, and protect the safety of patrons and staff, new procedures will be put in place for pool operation this year.
All guests are required to sign-up for time slots 24 hours in advance. Each week the pool will be offering two 30-minute adult swim slots (for those 18 and older) and five 60-minute family swim slots. Guests will be given a 15-minute warning towards the end of their session and are expected to exit the pool promptly to allow for proper sanitation of the area before the next swim block.
Guests are asked to arrive 5-10 minutes prior to their reservation in a distanced line outside the front gate of the pool. While the bathroom will be open for emergency use, all guests are asked to arrive and depart from the pool in their swimming attire as the locker room will not be open for changing or showering.
Please visit the Town of Killington Website for more information regarding procedures. Fees for residents will be $4 Adults and $2 Kids 12 and under, plus $5 COVID surcharge per group to help defer additional costs. Non-Resident season pass for a Family of 4 is $65 Individual + $20 COVID surcharge. Adults are $30 individual + $20 surcharge and children $15 + $20 surcharge.
To pay, please bring a check to at the beginning of your visit to to the town pool.
Killington Residents please bring a valid ID when you first come to the pool and you will be assigned your number.
RUTLAND
White Memorial Park Pool
The Rutland Recreation Department is excited to be able to open White Memorial Park Pool this summer despite the impacts of Covid-19. However, open swim, swim lessons, lap swim, and swim team will look different. Due to the number of individuals permitted in a space, they need to be able to monitor and control the access to the pool this summer. They plan to have the pool open until the end of August, but will adjust the schedule as needed.
What you need to know:
1. Lap Swim: There are many options for lap swimming. A person can choose one of the three programs offered and register for a program. If the program does not meet capacity, they will accept walk-ins, but this is not guaranteed. All information on the cost and the time slots for the program is located on the website. When the scheduled time has 5 minutes left, the lifeguard will blow their whistle and everyone must clear the pool and leave through the designated gate.
Even if you came late to your time, you must clear the pool so the staff can disinfect and prepare
If you are running late, please call the pool. If the time slot is filled and you are a “no show” they may give your spot to someone else.
2. Modified Swim Team: There are four options to choose from to get your exercise and training in. A workout will be provided, and an instructor will be available. A person may choose more than one option to have the ability to swim every day. It is important that when the lifeguard blows the whistle 5 minutes prior the ending time, that all swimmers leave the pool area and exit through the designated gates. The lifeguards will then disinfect the area and re-open to the next scheduled group.
3. Group lessons: The Recreation Department is not currently offering Group Lessons, but may re-evaluate mid July.
4. Private Swim lessons: Private swim lessons are available. However, parents cannot be on the pool deck. After you have signed up for Private Lessons you will be contacted to set up your first lesson with your instructor. For the remainder of the lessons, you and your instructor will set up times and days.
5. Open Swim: Due to the guidelines of Covid-19 in regards to group gatherings, social distancing and tracking, they need to have pre-registration/reservations for family open swim. They are hopeful that as the “spigot opens” they will be able to increase the number of swimmers at one time. They ask that you and your family come dressed in your suits, and leave in your suits. Bathrooms will be available.
Cost is $2 per person for residents, and $per person for non-resident – payment is required for admissions into the park, regardless of if you plan to swim or not.
WHITE RIVER JUNCTION
Upper Valley Aquatic Center
Upper Valley Aquatic Center members will notice various changes in the way the club looks, as well as new practices and procedures. UVAC understands these changes may be difficult and may take some time to adjust to. Their goal is to ensure you feel safe and secure while they navigate the complexities of the “new normal.”
There will be separate entrances for aquatics, splash camp, and dry land activities. Staff will wear facemasks at all times unless it hinders their work i.e. cardio or weight lifting. Members must wear facemasks in common areas and when not doing cardio activities. Reservations will be taken for lap swimming, masters lanes and group fitness classes. The number of people in the club will be limited to 25% of capacity. No locker room or shower facilities will be immediately available. There will be restroom use only. Come dressed to swim or workout. Please plan or changing and showering at home. Those participating in aquatic activities will enter and exit through doors in the pool area. As with many things during this time, situations are fluid. UVAC is getting updates constantly from the state, CDC and medical professionals on changes to procedures.
