Aquatic Center opens with a few new wrinkles
The Kroger Aquatic Center at The Heights, at 8625 Brandt Pike, opened June 1 for its eighth season.
Heights City Manager Rob Schommer stated that the city had been preparing to open the pool at the Kroger Aquatic Center even before Gov. Mike DeWine announced the order allowing pools to open. “We’re happy that our decision to open the Kroger Aquatic Center has paid off, even with the restrictions in place” Schommer said.
“Pool staff sanitize high touch areas around the pool on a regular schedule, chairs are spaced out six feet apart, and there is signage throughout the entire facility encouraging people to social distance.
“We have the best of the best in terms of operators of the pool with the YMCA. They’re experts in safety and recreation.”
However, this season isn’t without its complaints. Chris Lindeman, YMCA at The Heights executive director, said social distancing issues and then having to wait in line to get into the facility are the biggest complaints. This year, with limited capacity, lines have been a little longer than normal, but that’s always expected in perfect pool weather.
“These are different times and people have to understand the protocols in place to keep everyone safe,” Lindeman stated. “We just ask for patience during busy times, don’t move deck chairs, and to respect and follow the stated social distancing requests that are made by our staff.”
Capacity is stated on the signs outside the facility, but the current capacity is capped at 650 by the Montgomery County Health Department. Once that capacity limit is reached, guests are required to wait for entrance into the facility and there are also times where the pool is then closed for the day, which has happened on really hot days in the past. Closures due to air temperature, weather or capacity are posted on the city’s social media channels.
With so many local pools closed this year it was important to prioritize entrance for Huber Heights residents as well as those who purchase a season pass.
During the entire 2019 season, the Kroger Aquatics Center issued 333 season passes. This year it has already issued over 350.
The benefit of being a Huber Heights resident or a season pass holder is that they can enter every day starting at 12 p.m. and also on Mondays and Wednesdays when the pool is closed to the public. The public is welcome from 1–8 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays–Sundays.
When asked what Lindeman really wants people to know about the Kroger Aquatic Center, he said, “We want people to be safe when using the Kroger Aquatic Center and to understand that their safety is our top priority. Our lifeguards and staff work very hard to keep our guests safe while having fun.”
Those interested in more information about the Kroger Aquatic Center should visit: www.hhoh.org/KrogerAquaticCenter