City of Austin works to reopen pools in June, cancels paid summer camps

The Austin Parks & Recreation Department is working on offering “modified pool operations” beginning in June, according to a May 22 news release by the city.

An official date on which pools could reopen and details of guidelines the department will be following to operate the facilities have not yet been announced.

Previously scheduled paid summer camps hosted by the department will also be canceled this year, according to the release, and refunds will be given to families who had already paid.

Additionally, the department will be offering new, free camps at 20 locations in the city, which will follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines to promote public health and safety. Registration for the programs will open in June, and camp sizes will be limited, according to the department. Specific information about programs will be posted here when available.

“[The Austin Parks & Recreation Department] is working to ensure that recreational activities are offered in a healthy and safe manner and that the re-establishment of programming opportunities does not contribute to increased risks associated with COVID-19,” the release stated. “While [the department] wishes additional programming was possible, the department is proud to offer a modified summer schedule that provides equitable access opportunities, on-line programming options, supports city of Austin initiatives and meets all health-related COVID-19 guidelines.”