LOUISVILLE, Ky. — As public pools remain closed this summer, Mayor Greg Fischer announced a plan for swimming alternatives using donations from Papa John's and Louisville native Jamon Brown's foundation.
Fischer said the city will hold 10 community swim events at two YMCA locations, structure swims at Central High School's pool and daily swim lessons at The Mary T. Meagher Aquatic Center.
Papa John's donation of $90,000 along with the $5,000 donation from the Jamon Brown Foundation and a matching donation from the Atlanta Falcons will be used for pool operations, including lifeguards.
“We’re facing a challenging time in our city, but great leaders solve challenges," Fischer said. "We are grateful for the partners who’ve stepped in to help ensure a fun summer for children and families in the absence of our four outdoor pools.”
Community partners including Jefferson County Public Schools, TARC and the YMCA helped developed the alternative plan, and will provide transportation options for those who would have trouble getting to the pools.
Beginning June 8, the YMCA will host 10 community swim events — five at the Southwest YMCA and five at the Downtown YMCA. Fees are $3 per person 14 years and over and $2 per person 13 and under.
Southwest YMCA, 2801 Fordhaven Road:
- Saturday, June 15th from 3:30 - 6:30 p.m.
- Saturday, June 29th from 3:30- 6:30 p.m.
- Saturday, July 13th from 3:30- 6:30 p.m.
- Friday, July 26th from 5:30- 830 p.m.
- Friday, August 9th from 5:30- 830 p.m.
Downtown YMCA, 555 S. Second Street:
- Saturday, June 8th from 3:30-6:30 p.m.
- Sunday, June 23rd from 3:30-6:30 p.m.
- Sunday, July 7th from 3:30-6:30 p.m.
- Sunday, July 21st from 3:30-6:30 p.m.
- Sunday, August 4th from 3:30-6:30 p.m.
Vouchers for the YMCA summer swim events can be purchased at Metro Parks Administrative Offices, at the Mary T. Meagher Aquatic Center, 201 Reservoir Avenue starting Monday, June 3; or at the YMCA 30 minutes before the start of the event.
Four-hour long swim lessons will be held on Fridays and Saturdays at Central High School's pool beginning June 14. Sessions are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday and noon to 4 p.m. on Saturdays in June and July. Group rates are $2 per child.
The Mary T. Meagher Aquatic Center will host daily open community swims beginning June 10. The hours are Monday-Thursday from noon to 4 p.m.; Friday from 12 to 8 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Normal pricing applies.
"If [you] think this has been difficult so far, there is a lot more coming over these next couple of years," Fischer said.
The mayor said he can't promise the pools will open next summer if council members don't come up with a long-term plan.
"Let your council members know that you support new revenue for the future of our city," Fischer said. "What I would love for the council to see and hear is the voices of the community saying this is unacceptable for a community our size with the kind of ambitions we have."
For more information on transportation to swim sites, please call Parks and Recreation at 502-574-7275.
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