Welcome to Your New Community Park Pool [PHOTOS]

Kids stood in their bathing suits, towels wrapped around their necks, anxious to cool off from the sweltering heat on Saturday.

Some tried to peer through the metal gate to get a glimpse of Princeton’s brand new $6.37 million pool complex behind Township Hall on Witherspoon Street.

After about 30 minutes of remarks from Princeton officials who wanted to thank those who made the new pool possible, the gates opened and hundreds rushed in to enjoy the day.

“I’d like to welcome everybody to the grand opening of your new Community Park Pool,” Princeton Recreation Executive Director Ben Stentz said.

Construction on the new Murtha stainless steel pool began on Sept. 14 and since then many have been integral to the project’s success, from the architect, construction management from current and former employees, current and former elected officials and donors, Stentz said.

Princeton Township Mayor Chad Goerner said there’s one more person who deserves praise for this project.

“Of all the people Ben thanked, he forgot to thank himself and I think we owe him a great round of applause,” Goerner said.

The new pool is named for Stentz and his two predessessors, Don Barr and Jack Roberts.

The official pool name is Barrobertstenz Community Park Pool.