WATERTOWN, NY – Following a structural evaluation of the pool tank, the Watertown Family YMCA Board of Directors is saddened to announce the permanent closure of the lap pool at the Downtown YMCA. Lap swim opportunities will remain available at varying times in the recreational pool at the Downtown YMCA and from 6:15-7:15 am Monday – Friday at the WHS pool by appointment only through Group Ex Pro at the Y beginning July 5th .
Five generations of Jefferson County residents have learned to swim at the YMCA and countless drownings have been prevented as a result. The lap pool has seen the formation of hundreds of lifelong friendships and countless healthy years added to lives. It has been the first job for a multitude of young people and seen the last day start with a lap for some of the most notable lives in our community. If a pool could talk – the stories it could tell. The YMCA staff is working to set up a community get together to tell those stories and support the construction of the
new lap pool in the near future.
Community support for the completion of the New Downtown YMCA Community and Aquatic Center has become more important than ever. “We had hoped that the integrity of the lap pool would sustain until the new pools were complete at the end of next year. We are deeply disappointed that it is not to be and appeal to all to help us make sure the new pools happen” stated Denise Young, CEO of the Watertown Family YMCA.
Due to the age of the pool, the YMCA has done due diligence and conducted structural assessments twice in the past five years. Unfortunately, the results of the most recent assessment recommended the closure and decommissioning of the pool to ensure the safety of members and guests. The pool is drained at this time and will not be refilled.
Please contact the Downtown YMCA Member services desk at 315-782-3100 for assistance with Group Ex Pro to reserve lap swim times in either the Downtown YMCA recreational pool or the Watertown High School Lap pool.
###
About the Y
The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Across the U.S., 2,700 Ys engage 22 million men, women, and children – regardless of age, income, or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Anchored in more than 10,000 communities, the Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to
deliver, lasting personal and social change.