City prepares to reopen outdoor pools for Memorial Day weekend

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Geese that have made their home in city pools will soon have to seek out new waters as the city prepares to reopen pools this month.

"It’s the best thing to do during the summer time,” said Josh Herbert, divisions manager for CABQ Aquatics.

Herbert said having pools reopened will be especially exciting for kids this summer.

"We follow the APS school year so a lot of our users are family, so when kids are in school, pools aren’t as popular,” he said.

Herbert helps run the 12 city pools, and 8 outdoor pools that are prepping to reopen Memorial Day weekend. However, some COVID capacity restrictions will still be in place.

"So, 75 percent for outdoor, 50 percent for indoor, and we’re hoping that we can expand even further as the state progresses,” he said.

Swimmers will be required to make reservations ahead of time for recreational swimming this year.

Herbert also said swimming lessons are still available, but are filling up fast because there will be one instructor per three students instead of the usual six students.

"Whether you’re by a pool, or at the river, or by a lake, nothing trumps parent supervision. So, parents always keep a close watch on your child,” he said.

The pools are deep cleaned ahead of every season. Around 80 lifeguard positions are also available this summer.

For more information about signing up for swim lessons, click here.