Mayor Parker takes a dive to open Philly city pools

Name: Mayor Parker, city officials dive in to open Philly pools
Uploaded: 2025-06-13T16:27:29-04:00
Description: Mayor Cherelle Parker and officials jump into summer by opening city pools.

Mayor Parker, city officials dive in to open Philly pools

Mayor Cherelle Parker and officials jump into summer by opening city pools.

HUNTING PARK - The weather is warming up and kids are out of school for the summer, which means Philadelphia city pools are beginning to open across the city.

What we know:

Mayor Cherelle Parker joined the Hunting Park community with City Council President Kenyatta Johnson and Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada to open the first of Philadelphia’s 60 city pools on Friday afternoon.

The Hunting Park pool is one of 12 pools that received upgrades and beautification for the 2025 season, in a program funded by a three-year grant and led by Mural Arts Philadelphia, Philly Parks and Rec and Tiny WPA.

The city has hired nearly 400 lifeguards and pool maintenance staff for the summer season in order to provide a safe and clean environment for those utilizing the pools.

"Everyone deserves a safe place to cool off during the hottest months, regardless of their neighborhood," said Susan Slawson, Commissioner, Philadelphia Parks and Recreation. "Thanks to the commitment of nearly 400 lifeguards and pool maintenance attendants, we are on track to open our pools as planned this summer.

What you can do:

Swimming lessons will be available for Parks & Recs summer campus and free swimming lessons will be available for kids. Some pool settings will also have swimming lessons for adults.

Parents and caregivers are always responsible for their children and kids under eight have to be within arms reach of their parent or guardian whenever they’re in the water.

Need more information on hours and lessons? You can find that on the city's Parks & Rec Finder App here.