GREENFIELD — Not only does Greenfield’s public pool open today, but visitors can cool off from highs expected in the lower 80s at no charge.
The new-look Riley Park Pool, 280 Apple St., will be open noon to 7 p.m.
Weather concerns and the pool’s ongoing $3.3 million renovation kept the Greenfield Parks and Recreation Department from opening the facility on its originally scheduled date over Memorial Day weekend.
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Some parts of the renovation continue to be completed, like the two 20-foot water slides and cabana area.
But the pool’s new zero-depth entry and water playground are ready for use.
Other improvements include updated diving boards, a new shade structure and redesigned concessions area.
“It was due for an update,” pool manager Mark Logan, said of the facility, which was built in the early 1980s.
Logan said the pool will be staffed with eight lifeguards at all times and that a couple more will likely come on board after the water slides are finished.
The renovations follow a new splash pad at the park near the pool that opened last year, which is open from dawn until dusk.
Logan said he was worried at first that the splash pad would hamper attendance at the pool, but the facility drew record numbers last year.
The pool will be open noon to 7 p.m. seven days a week. Entry is free today. For the remainder of the season, admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children, seniors and members of the military.
Stephanie Melton of just outside Greenfield and her two children are looking forward to the pool opening. She said they try to come at least three times a week in the summer and are excited for the new water slides.
“I can’t wait,” she said. “I’m sure they’re going to have a blast.”
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The pool, in Riley Park at 280 Apple St., will be open noon to 7 p.m. daily. Admission will be free for today only. Starting Saturday, admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children, seniors and members of the military.
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