Here’s some news that will make a splash: After six months of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Canby Swim Center has reopened to the public — though heavy restrictions remain in place.
The pool actually reopened last week — briefly — before the Clackamas wildfires and poor air quality throughout the region quickly forced it to close again. It reopened for good this week.
For much of the pandemic, the state has required most swimming pools, spas and health clubs to remain closed for phase 1 counties, which includes Clackamas.
However, this changed with new guidance from the Oregon Health Authority earlier this month, allowing for a limited reopening of licensed, indoor public pools — even in phase 1 areas.
The Canby Swim Center is open for lane rentals Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. One person is allowed per lane, or two if they are from the same household. Lanes are available for lap swimming, water jogging and personal exercise.
An individual may make up to four reservations per week, depending on availability. Each hour reservation consists of 45 minutes for swimming and 15 minutes for staff to appropriately clean the facility for the next group.
“At this time, we are not available for swimming lessons or public swim,” Aquatic Program Manager Eric Laitinen tells The Canby Current. “Swim teams have also started up in the afternoon and evening. All swimming is with physical distancing measures in place.”
The locker rooms remain closed, so swimmers must come to the pool ready to swim. Restrooms are available for emergencies only, officials say. Face coverings are required entering and exiting the facility, but — fortunately — not while actually swimming.
Swimmers will be expected to quickly rinse in the showers before swimming. Personal belongings may be stored under the deck chairs since the lockers are unavailable.
A lengthier list of rules and restrictions is available on the city pool’s website.
During the closure, aquatic center staff painted the interior of the pool area, including the ceiling, and did some maintenance work on the filter system. They were also able to do in-service training with lifeguards and swim instructors via Zoom to “keep them up to date,” Laitinen said.
For more information or to rent a lane, call the Canby Swim Center during the week at 503-266-2761.
