Lifeguard Shortage Causes Reduced Pool Hours In Decatur

DECATUR, GA — All outdoor city of Decatur pools will have modified hours starting next weekend due to a national lifeguard shortage, city officials said.

All outdoor city pools first reopened Memorial Day weekend with capacity requirements due to COVID-19, and the Oakhurst indoor pool opened June 1. Here's the new pool schedule:

• Glenlake Pool, 1121 Church Street, Decatur
  • Open weekdays from 4-8 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
  • Reduced capacity limit: 106 people
• McKoy Pool, 534 McKoy Street, Decatur
  • Open weekends from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
  • Reduced capacity limit: 50 people
• Ebster Park Pool, 404 W. Trinity Place
  • Open weekdays from 9 a.m.-noon for lap swim and weekends from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
  • Reduced capacity limit: 62 people

Admission to the pool is $5 for each person age 1 and older. Cash and in-state checks are accepted. Resident season family pool passes are available for purchase at Glenlake Tennis Center for $150, and individual passes are $45.

Patrons will be asked to exit the facility after two hours if others are waiting in line to enter the pool. Pool rentals will remain suspended for the 2021 season, city officials said.

Patrons are "strongly recommended" to wear masks while not in the pool, city officials said. No snacks or food service will be open, but patrons are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks — excluding anything in glass — to the pool.

Children under age 12 must be accompanied by someone who is at least 15 years old. Unsupervised children under age 12 will not be allowed in the pool, and guardians must ensure children are maintaining a physical distance of six feet from non-family members.

Additionally, no toys, balls, noodles or kick boards will be allowed in the pool, excluding those for beginner swimmers to stay afloat. Large groups and parties of more than nine people will not be allowed.

If a patron reports a positive test for COVID-19 and they have visited a pool within the last 48 hours, that pool will be closed for 24 hours.

Anyone who needs to report violations of social distancing guidelines or any other concerns is asked to call 404-377-7231 or email Jabari.Cole@decaturga.com. For additional information, visit the city of Decatur's aquatics page.