Patterson Park Public Pool Season Starts with a Splash!

After being closed in 2023, Patterson Park Public Pool opens for Summer 2024 with much excitement from the community and City officials. Mayor Brandon Scott and Councilperson Zeke Cohen were among the first to jump in to kick off the summer fun!

Here are some details from the Mayor’s office and Baltimore City Rec and Parks.

“We could not be more excited to return Patterson Park Pool to the list of open and accessible aquatic facilities for this pool season,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “This pool, like so many others across the city, had not been updated or renovated for decades and was deteriorating in on itself, causing safety concerns for Baltimore’s families. The renovation and repair projects we’re undertaking now, should have been done long, long ago – but with the historic investment’s we’re making in Rec & Parks – we’re finally righting that wrong. Every single year, our pools are one of the City’s most popular attractions – and what a great way to ring in the new pool season than with this exciting ribbon-cutting. Let’s have a fun, safe summer, Baltimore!”

Patterson Park Swimming Pool — originally built in 1953 — now features a state-of-the-art mechanical system, piping, plumbing, drains, and pool liner. Additionally, the mechanical room has been updated to prevent flooding.

The May 25 ribbon-cutting event reflected Phase I of renovations that will take place at Patterson Park Pool. Phase II improvements — slated for completion in 2025 — will include an upgraded pool house and brand-new wading pool. This City-funded project is an investment of $2.5 million.

“The upgrades at Patterson Park Swimming Pool are another example of the Scott Administration’s commitment to transforming our facilities into modern, state-of-the-art recreational spaces. Equity is our top priority, so we want to continue reimagining our spaces throughout the city,” said BCRP Executive Director Reginald Moore.  “We’re committed to this work because our pools are an important resource that can really make a difference in our communities. Our pools not only serve as a venue to stay cool on hot, summer days, but also provide the opportunity to learn the art of swimming.”

PATTERSON PARK POOL HOURS & GUIDELINES

POOL HOURS

May 25 through June 14: Saturday and Sunday 11 am-3 pm, then from 4-8 pm with an hour in between for cleaning.

Saturday, June 15 through September 1: Monday-Thursday 12-3 pm, 4-7 pm, Friday-Sunday 11-3, 4-8 pm
(Special Labor Hours may apply. TBD)

SET UP AN ACCOUNT
To use Baltimore City pools, you must have a civic rec account. Create your account before arrival. No registration is needed. To sign up or for more details: https://bcrp.baltimorecity.gov/aquatics. The pool is FREE and attendance is first come, first served. The daily capacity will depend on the number of lifeguards on duty.

Please read the rules in full to make sure you have the best experience possible!! (Note rule #20 – no bags! So grab your sunglasses, keys, and a towel and slather on your sunblock before entering.)

POOL RULES

  1. Pool rules must be obeyed at all times.

  2. All swimmers must shower before entering the pool area.    

  3. Appropriate swim attire is required.

  4. Individuals with open sores, skin rashes, or bandages are not allowed in the pool.

  5. Floatation devices are not allowed in the pool.

  6. Glass of any kind Is strictly prohibited.

  7. Food, chewing gum, and drinks are only allowed in designated areas and never on the pool deck.

  8. Children under 13 must be supervised by an adult of 21 years or older at all times.

  9. Children younger than six must be accompanied by an adult in swim attire and remain within arm's reach at all times.

  10. Guardians supervising groups larger than six require an additional adult. The ratio for children under six is one adult for every three children.

  11. All diapers are prohibited. Those requiring diapers must wear swim diapers or snug plastic underpants under their swimsuits.

  12. Misconduct of individuals may result in the dismissal of the entire group.

  13. Profanity and vulgar language are not acceptable in the pool area.

  14. Running, pushing, hazardous play, and spitting in the pool or pool deck is prohibited.

  15. Pets are not allowed on the premises, with the exception of support animals (documentation is required).

  16. Persons appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs are not allowed on the premises.

  17. Swimmers under four feet tall must pass a water swim test or remain restricted to the wading pool.

  18. All swimmers must demonstrate their swimming ability to staff to be permitted to swim in deep water.

  19. Aqua shoes are allowed during water aerobic sessions as long as they are clean and free of all foreign debris. Elderly or disabled patrons who wish to wear aqua shoes must present a doctor's note stating the need for aqua shoes.

  20. No bags will be allowed on the pool deck. If you bring a bag, there are a limited number of lockers for your use. The best practice is to come to the pool already wearing the appropriate swimwear (please see below), and avoid having to leave your bag in the lockers.

All persons on the pool deck, and/or swimming in the pool, are required to wear proper swim attire. All swimwear bottoms must have a liner. All swimwear must be clean. All infants/toddlers that require diapers must wear swimmer diapers and proper swimwear. Check out the graphic on the website to make sure what you’re wearing in on the list.

 

SPECIAL EVENTS

• Sunday, July 21 at 6 pm - Swim Across America event to raise money for Cancer research. More info https://www.swimacrossamerica.org/.

• Friday, August 16, BCRP is partnering with the Mayor's office for a Teen Night

SAFETY
Please do not enter or swim in the pool without a lifeguard present. Safety is a priority.

OTHER INFO (We were asked several questions on Facebook by the community and here are the answers from BCRP.)

• No Twilight Swim this season (unless a future announcement is made)

• Baby Country Club will be held at Middle Branch Fitness and Wellness

• Early Bird Passes for lap swimming will go on sale June 1. The sessions will be Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday from 6-10am. Passes are required and cost $50 for the summer.

More information about BCRP’s aquatic facilities can be found on their website: bcrp.baltimorecity.gov/aquatics.