Simpson Park Pool Closed For Major Repair

Simpson Park Pool — one of only two public swimming pools in the city — is closed for repairs.

Why? Director of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Bob Donahay said the pool’s vinyl liner has separated from the pool wall and is now a safety hazard. The liner separation has caused a large bubble to form that has moved close to the water intake valves, creating a void in which a person could get caught.

“Safety is our top priority, and we don’t want an issue where a pool guest gets their foot or hand caught in the separated liner,” Donahay said. “The bubble created by the separation has gotten larger as it has moved near the water intake valves.”

For how long? It is not known how long the repair will take.

Where else can you go? Gandy Pool, located at the Kelly Recreation Complex at 404 Imperial Boulevard, is open and people are encouraged to use that facility during the closure. Kelly Rec is more than five miles from Simpson Park.

Group swimming participants and parents of children receiving swimming lessons have been notified to coordinate options.

Check back: Updates on the Simpson Park Pool repairs and timeline and Gandy Pool operational schedule can be found at www.Lakelandgov.net/Swimming.