Fifteen outdoor swimming pools are scheduled to open up within the five boroughs including our very own in Astoria starting August 1stGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.

Originally Mayor Deblasio had announced that due to the corona virus and the $2 billion in cuts to the new city budget, that city pools would fall amongst the casualties of programs that would not be reopening for the summerGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. It was said that closing the pools would have saved the city up to $12 millionGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. However, in a recent agreement between the mayor and city council, they have decided to reverse this decision and have restored millions to the parks department budgetGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.

Over $5 million will go towards the hiring of around 716 lifeguards and pool staffGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. Deblasio has stated that they have chosen to focus on reopening pools in areas that have been hit hardest by the virus and are furthest from the beachesGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. Lucky for us, Astoria Pool falls in this categoryGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.

There will likely be new restrictions such as continuing to wear masks when outside the pool and of course social distancingGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. At least it allows the kids and members of the community a chance to cool off from the heat and gives us something to look forward to this summerGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.