Cool off this summer at Oakville splash pads and pools

Residents will be able to enjoy cooling off at Town of Oakville splash pads and select town-operated pools this summer. All 19 splash pads will open this Friday, June 26. Lions, Wedgewood and Falgarwood outdoor pools, and Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre’s (QEPCCC) indoor pool will open Monday, July 13, 2020 for recreational swims and private lessons only.

The opening of splash pads and pools follows the announcement of Stage 2 of Ontario’s Framework for Reopening the Province.

“As a swimmer, I know how important our pools are to residents and we know the reopening of splash pads will put a smile on many young faces, too,” said Mayor Rob Burton. “We proactively consulted public health authorities about pools and splash pads and are opening these with the health and safety of the community in mind. I encourage residents to continue to follow all health protocols while using these amenities including follow physical distancing and proper hand washing. And, stay home if you are not well. Let’s continue to flatten the curve.”

All 19 splash pads will open to the public from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. While we encourage families to use these facilities, caregivers should ensure that proper physical distancing is taking place at splash pads. Splash pads are unsupervised, and while they are inspected daily, staff will not be sanitizing all features or play areas. Residents are reminded to wash or sanitize their hands after use.

Signs will be posted at each of the splash pad locations indicating health measures and reminders. Playgrounds and outdoor gym equipment remain closed under provincial order.

Capacity at Town of Oakville outdoor/indoor pools will be reduced to help ensure physical distancing guidelines are maintained in compliance with Halton Public Health Regulations, Lifesaving Society’s guidelines, and provincial guidelines.

Reduced-capacity length and leisure swims will be offered in shortened times to maximize access. Customers will be asked a verbal health questionnaire before entering the pool. Anyone exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms will not be allowed to enter.

In compliance with guidelines for opening aquatic facilities in this phase, change rooms and access to change areas will not be available. Swimmers must arrive already wearing their bathing attire and leave without changing at the facility (bring an extra towel for the walk or drive home).  Swimmers are encouraged to shower at home in advance and showers will be accessible prior to entering the pool only.  Washrooms will remain open.  Equipment will not be available for use with the exception of lifejackets which will be disinfected between users. All swimmers will be asked to leave the facilities after their swimming time to allow for a thorough cleaning between swim times.

Physical distancing is still required. Individuals must maintain a distance of at least two metres apart while queuing to enter the pool, on the pool deck, and in the water; however, this does not apply to people who are living together in the same household. 

Starting July 6, residents can pre-book their swim times online at active.oakville.ca, as in-person bookings are not allowed to manage capacity restrictions. Admission is $4 for seniors and youth, and $5 for adults and must be paid online prior to your scheduled swim. Cash will not be accepted on site. If you require support with alternate payment options, please call 905-815-2000.

As we are accepting online bookings only, activity passes and fitness memberships will not be accepted in July or August. Memberships have been cancelled or extended until full operations can safely resume. Complimentary passes, Valentine’s Day tickets, etc. are also not accepted at this time. Regular swim admission policies will apply. Pool rentals are also not permitted at this time.

Developed in consultation with the Lifesaving Society, and incorporating strict public health measures designed to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19, limited private swimming lessons will be offered.

All previous Leadership participants for our spring and summer sessions, will receive an email about available programming and how to register.

The Town of Oakville’s top priority continues to be the health and safety of the community and town staff. There is a comprehensive recovery process in place that aligns with the province’s gradual phased-in approach. As provincial guidelines are updated, the town will continue to look for opportunities to expand programming in a safe and responsible manner. Learn more about the town’s COVID-19 Recovery Program Framework.

For more information on the town’s efforts to support the community in response to COVID-19, visit the COVID-19 page or follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.