In recent years, Guilford County government – along with plenty of other local governments and private establishments – has had a great deal of trouble hiring lifeguards to watch over pools.
However, fortunately, that hasn’t been a problem this year and Guilford County is ready for summer.
According to Eddi Blanco, Communications and PR Manager for Guilford County, the Parks Department was able to hire enough staff to safely open and operate the pools for this upcoming season. Bianco said this was in part due to the county hosting some successful summer hiring events in March – consisting of both in-person and virtual events.
Bianco added that Guilford County Parks is always hiring for lifeguard, park attendant and cashier positions.
So now the county’s aquatic centers are set to open on Memorial Day Weekend. Starting on Saturday, May 27, the county-run pools – at Bur-Mil Park, Hagan-Stone Park and Northeast Park – will open to the public on a modified schedule, before eventually opening to a seven day a week schedule.
Here’s the upcoming schedule:
Saturday, May 27: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, May 28: noon to 5 p.m.
Monday, May 29: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday, June 3: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, June 4: noon to 5 p.m.
Then, beginning on Saturday, June 10, all of the county’s aquatic centers will be open seven days a week through Sunday, August 20 under the following schedule:
Monday through Thursday: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Friday through Saturday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.
The county calls these spaces “aquatic centers” because they’re much more than just pools. They feature “a beach-entry, toddler slide, and spray features.”
The Hagan-Stone Park aquatic area also features a 22-foot slide that has multiple turns, while Bur-Mil Park and Northeast Park feature diving boards.
All facilities will observe special hours for county holidays and for special events. You can visit the Guilford County website for a list of those dates.
The cost of admission is $5 per person, but kids under two years of age are free.
(In the cities of Greensboro and High Point, free pool time for kids from financially challenged families is being offered this summer.)
County officials point out that swimmers can save money in the long run by buying a 2023 Aquatic Center Discount Pass for $40. Discount passes allow visitors 10-weekday entries into Bur-Mil Park, Hagan-Stone Park or Northeast Park Aquatic Centers (excluding holidays). The passes can be purchased in person at county parks starting on Saturday, May 27.
Here are a few additional tips from the county for aquatic center users:
- To avoid large crowds, guests are encouraged to visit during weekdays at non-peak hours. General admission reservations will not be accepted in advance.
- Pool parties and daycare visits must be scheduled in advance. No swim lessons will be provided.
- Concession stands are available at each of the county’s aquatic centers. Guests may bring coolers. However, alcohol and glass containers are not allowed.
For more information on Guilford County Parks Aquatic Centers, you can call 336-641-7275 or visit www.guilfordparks.com. For the latest updates, you can follow Guilford County Parks on the department’s Facebook page.