Recognizing the importance of accessing aquatic facilities in the alleviation of heat wave impacts and in skill-building of life-saving swimming abilities the City will invest in reduced costs for public swimming at the Cox Community Centre Tecumseh Pool.
Effective immediately all fees related to swimming and programming at the pool will be reduced to 2019 levels. Open swim admissions will be reduced to rates of $2 per person, per visit at the pool. Aquafit classes will be reduced to $2 per person, per session.
“As we examine how to best provide aquatic services in the future it is critical our residents can continue to access pools, building critical swimming abilities and providing relief during periods of high heat,” said Chief Administrative Officer Chris Carter.
The pool was able to open this year thanks to a partnership with the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario, allowing for the return of aquatic recreation and program opportunities including swimming lessons, Aquafit, daily public swims and free sponsored swims on weekends.
The City has traditionally relied on the Red Cross for such program content, however the Red Cross has discontinued support for swimming lessons. Thankfully the YMCA was able to provide their long-established expertise in swimming lesson programming and lifeguarding, allowing swimming lessons and other aquatic programming to move forward in 2022.