Creston swimming pool to open Saturday

If you’ve been waiting for an opportunity to splash away the summer heat in Creston, you won’t have to wait much longer.

McKinley Park’s swimming pool is scheduled to open for the summer this Saturday at 1 p.m., weather permitting.

This opening date will be 11 days later than last year, due to a rainy spring that delayed the painting crew.

“That was the only reason we didn’t open early,” Calie Baker, pool manager, said. “You’ve got to let that paint dry.”

Pool and concession stand hours will be 1 to 7 p.m.

Baker said the plan is to remain open seven days a week, although a shortage in life guards this year may cause that to change depending on scheduling.

“I’m a little short on staff,” she said. “It’s going to be kind of a tighter schedule because there may be some days when I have to close because we have insufficient amount of guards.”

Baker said she schedules her staff about a month in advance and, if necessary, will post closing dates as soon as possible on the pool’s Facebook page and on the pool doors.

Swimming lessons will run June 22 through July 2, with hour-long classes beginning at noon and 6:30 p.m., and July 27 through Aug. 6, with one class at noon.The cost is $35 and forms can be picked up in the city administrator’s office or at the pool.

Private lessons are also available. Those interested in applying to be a lifeguard can pick up applications at the city administrator’s office.