Boston has allocated a significant budget of $54.5 million from 2025 to 2029 to upgrade its public pools, many of which are over 50 years old and were constructed in the 1970s.
This initiative is spearheaded by the Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) alongside the Public Facilities Department, demonstrating the City’s commitment to fulfilling the goals laid out in PLAN: Mattapan, PLAN: East Boston, and PLAN: Charlestown.
These investments not only promote affordable recreational opportunities for all residents but also address the urgent need for heat resiliency and support active and healthy lifestyles.
Recent interactive progress reports for each plan have highlighted the ongoing efforts to renovate the city’s public pool facilities.
Among the completed projects is the BCYF Clougherty Pool in Charlestown, which has undergone extensive renovations, with the bathhouse updates scheduled for completion soon.
Since its official reopening in July 2024, residents have been enjoying the state-of-the-art competition-certified lap pool.
The local group, Friends of Clougherty Pool, formed during the renovation phase to advocate for and support this vital community hub, praised the “incredible” quality and design of the new facility.
The pool renovations also emphasize accessibility, as both pools in the facility are now ramp-accessible, and the updated bathhouse includes an elevator and locker rooms, ensuring that all residents can enjoy the water comfortably.
In Mattapan, the BCYF Mattahunt Community Center Pool has emerged after four years of construction, reopening in spring 2024.
Earl Foulk, a longtime resident of Mattapan, shared his excitement, calling the renovated center “a whole new world.”
The facility boasts upgrades not only to the pool and gymnasium but also features an auditorium for community performances and a creative space for teens that includes a music recording studio.
Foulk reminisced about his family’s connection to the center, highlighting the role of community advocacy in reviving it.
With a beautiful indoor pool, the center now hosts daily activities ranging from a youth swim club to water aerobics and adaptive swim hours.
Importantly, the center also provides lifeguard training for aspiring youths aged 15-24, looking for summer work opportunities.
Over in East Boston, the BCYF Paris Street Pool welcomed its community back after renovations were completed in July 2023.
Deborah Curela, a local mother and community member, expressed gratitude for the returning pool, noting the challenges faced during the years it was closed due to the COVID pandemic.
Since its reopening, the pool has become a popular spot for families, with residents visiting at least once a week.
The renovations at Paris Street Pool enhance comfort for swimmers, featuring improved heating, ventilation, and filtration systems.
As part of the City’s commitment, BCYF Paris Street Pool offers free aquatic programs for Boston residents, including a six-week swim lesson series for adults and teens, along with two months of water fitness opportunities.
The pool serves as a gathering place, connecting diverse community members, including local teens, older adults from nearby apartments, and youth attending summer programs at the Paris Street Community Center.
Curela hopes that BCYF Paris Street Pool will incorporate adaptive swim hours for individuals with disabilities, raising the inclusive nature of the facility even further.
Together, the BCYF Clougherty, Mattahunt, and Paris Street pools exemplify the City’s ongoing investment in community infrastructure, ensuring public pools are safe and accessible for all Bostonians to enjoy during the summertime.
In addition to these pool renovations, Boston’s Mayor has expanded the SwimSafe initiative, which provides free swim lessons to youth.
Since its inception in 2023, the SwimSafe program has successfully taught over 8,000 kids how to swim safely, promoting aquatic safety and enjoyment among Boston’s youth.
As the summer heats up, residents are encouraged to take advantage of various cooling strategies.
Tips include saving on electricity for air conditioning through the Mass Save Community First Partnership and utilizing BCYF Cooling Centers during a Heat Emergency to escape the sun.
For additional resources, the City has released a comprehensive guide for Keeping Cool in Boston.”
In conclusion, Boston’s investment in its public pools not only revitalizes these essential community spaces but also prioritizes health, safety, and inclusivity for all of its residents.
image source from:boston