NORTH VERNON — The opening of the new North Vernon Aquatic Center has been a good story, but it will soon become a short one because of the reopening of the Jennings County School Corp.
“When school opens, the pool will close. It’s about the issue of life guards,” North Vernon Parks and Recreation Director Chad Speer said.
Speer explained that a minimum of four life guards are required at the swimming pool while it’s open, and that three of the staff of seven will return to high school when the JCSC schedule begins Aug. 6.
“I’d say we have had an above average group of guards this year,” Speer said. “They have had extra work because of COVID-19 and they have adapted very well. We can not operate the pool without our guards and they must return to school so there will only be a few more weeks to enjoy the pool.
“The good news is the Splash Pad will remain open. We don’t need life guards for the Splash Pad. So, depending on the weather, the Splash Pad could stay open up to Halloween.”
Both the swimming pool and the splash pad are a part of a $3.2 million project built last year at the southern corner of the North Vernon City Park.
Because of complications and delays caused by weather, the newly completed pool could not be opened for use last year.
The COVID-19 statewide lockdown threatened another delay in the grand opening, but the city pushed forward and the center began operating on June 8.
According to Speer around 250 people are usually at the center throughout each day.
“We have had a couple of days when people had to wait outside but most days I’d say we maintained close to our 250 limit,” said Speer adding he thought the pool also had visitors from outside the city and county. “For many reasons, it was important for us to get the pool open this year. Even though it will be a short season, it’s been a good season and we will be ready for a longer season next year.”
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The North Vernon Aquatic Center is currently open seven days a week from noon to 6 pm.
There is a fee of $5 a day to use the center for everyone over the age of two.
The center is located at 604 North State Street in North Vernon.
More information: 812-346-9371 .
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