Highbridge Pool Reopens In Washington Heights: What To Know

WASHINGTON HEIGHTS, NY — Families and New Yorkers looking for a place to cool off this summer celebrated on Tuesday as public outdoor pools reopened across the five boroughs, including in Washington Heights.

The popular Highbridge Pool at Amsterdam Avenue and West 173rd Street is among those that reopened for the summer.

“Summer is here which means our pools and beaches are open to enjoy,” New York City Mayor Eric Adams, said in a news release on Tuesday. “I encourage New Yorkers to take advantage of the city’s public pools to stay cool, get some exercise, and have fun.”

Pools across the city reopened despite a nationwide lifeguard shortage, meaning that some pools might have to adjust their hours and fully close on certain days.

The shortage recently caused Gov. Kathy Hochul to announce that lifeguards in New York City will now be making $22 an hour — up from $18.15.

Highbridge Pool has both an Olympic and Wading pool, but the latter will be closed for the entire 2022 season due to "necessary repair work."

The Olympic Pool will be open all summer from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., though, with an hour break between 3 and 4 p.m. for cleaning.

Highbridge Pool also got some worldwide fame last summer when Lin-Manuel Miranda's "In The Heights," included a major song within the pool.

You can find out more information about all of the pools in Manhattan on the city's website.