The seasons don’t stop for the coronavirus pandemic. Metro school districts are wrapping up their school years online, and the unofficial start to summer — Memorial Day — is quickly approaching.
Many parents and kids, cooped up inside their homes for weeks on end, are hoping they can at least get some relief this summer at the local pool. But that may not happen.
Yep, lazy days at the pool could be another once-enjoyable thing wiped out by the pandemic.
Some metro cities have already announced the cancellation of their pools’ summer season, and other municipalities are actively weighing what to do as both Kansas and Missouri gradually reopen.
So, is it sink or swim for where you live? Here’s what we know so far. This list will be regularly updated.
In Jackson County:
Blue Springs — The city has not yet made a decision for the 2020 season. The Blue Springs School District, which hosts city swim events at its pools, also says it is weighing all options before making a decision.
Independence — The City of Independence announced that Adventure Oasis Water Park will not open for the 2020 season out of an abundance of caution for the community. Henley Aquatic Center is also currently closed. Check back at their website for updates.
Lee’s Summit — The City of Lee’s Summit says it is continuing to work towards the reopening of their facilities in accordance with guidance from the Jackson County Health Department. The city encourages residents to check back for updates on the Parks and Recreation website and Facebook page.
Kansas City, Missouri — The city's Parks and Recreation Department tells KCUR the decision on whether city pools will open this summer will not be made until after May 18th.
North of the river
Gladstone — It's still to be determined whether the Gladstone Municipal Pool opens. Check back here for updates.
Liberty — The Liberty Community Center pool is tentatively scheduled to reopen June 1st.
In Johnson County
Lenexa —The City of Lenexa is opening Indian Trails Aquatic center, the largest and most centrally located pool in Lenexa, as well as Lenexa Rec Center’s indoor pool.
Olathe- The city has not yet made a decision on whether to open its pools for the summer.
Overland Park — The Overland Park City Council will soon vote on whether to open pools for the summer. There are hopes, however, that Matt Ross Community Center Pool will open July 1st, with some restrictions, depending on the phased reopening plan for Johnson County.
Prairie Village — The Prairie Village Pool Complex will not open for the summer 2020 season out of concern for the health of pool employees and pool goers.
Roeland Park — The City of Roeland Park announced on its Facebook page that the Roeland Park Aquatic Center will not be opening for the 2020 season out of concern for the health and safety of the community but will use the closure to complete planned improvement projects for the facility.
In Wyandotte County
Public pools will stay closed for now under the county's phased-in reopening plan. Officials tell KCUR the decision on whether to open pools will be reevaluated at the end of June.
