Nov. 14, 2008
Tucson Parks and Recreation has some good news for winter pool users who were recently impacted by scheduled closures at six of nine City year-round pool sites.
After a review and discussion of an existing Intergovernmental Agreement with Pima Community College - East Campus, the Clements Pool initially scheduled for closure Nov. 16 will now remain open for regular winter weekday and weekend operating hours to serve PCC students and the general public.
In addition, as an enhancement to a cooperative arrangement with the City, the YMCA of Metropolitan Tucson has agreed to honor City-issued aquatics passes for winter swimming at two locations -- Ott Family YMCA (885-2317) and Lohse Family YMCA (623-5200).
Those who desire to use the YMCA pools are encouraged to call the individual facilities or visit the agency’s website at www.tucsonymca.org to find site addresses and pool and aquatic program hours.
The good news for winter pool users comes as a result of the efforts of the City of Tucson mayor and council members who have worked diligently to seek alternative swimming opportunities during the winter months
Charlotte A. Fugett, East Campus president, said, "Pima Community College has a long and valued relationship with the City and the Parks and the Recreation Department. Our joint development of the Clements Center, beginning in 1998, affords the College the opportunity to offer fitness and workforce development programs in state of the art facilities and provides a wonderful fitness and recreational facility for the general public.
“That said, the College is also grappling with the implications of our state's budget deficit, and we can appreciate and sympathize with the state of affairs faced by the City of Tucson and its agencies. However, the College believes that during these difficult times it is imperative that we and our partners position ourselves to continue to address the education, career and personal development goals of our students. The fact that the City, Mayor and Council have worked to keep the Clements Pool open speaks to their commitment to continue to address these needs, as well. I applaud this action and I am excited about the new cooperative arrangement with the YMCA."
Dane Woll, YMCA president/CEO, said, “The YMCA has been working with the City to encourage increased physical activity and supporting our common goal of making Tucson a healthier community. To show our continued support, we are pleased to open our pools to the community during these tough economic times.”
In addition to Clements Pool, other City year-round pools remaining open for lap swimming, fitness and aquatic programs include the Edith Ball Adaptive Recreation Center, Catalina Pool and Sunnyside Pool.
For more information about City of Tucson winter pool schedules call the Aquatics Unit at 791-4245 or 791-5352.