New Topeka pool could open soon as summer comes to a close

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Topekans may soon be able to beat the heat at a brand-new pool in the Oakland neighborhood.

KSNT 27 News checked in with Shawnee County Parks and Recreation (SCP+R) on Friday, July 26 to learn more about the progress being made at the city's newest $4 million aquatic center. Sean Zears, an SCP+R spokesman, said in a written response the pool may open on Aug. 16, 2024.

However, several factors at work, such as ongoing construction work, weather and a shortage of lifeguards, are impacting this possible opening date.

"The issue is staff, mainly lifeguards," Zears said. "We are wanting to open the pool to the public, but not having the lifeguards working is a deal breaker."

Zears said the contractor putting the pool together has been working six days a week for months to get it ready to open. Periods of rainy weather impacted how often workers could be on site at several points in the summer.

"Weather has been and will always be a deterrent," Zears said. "Having the hot weather and no rain is a plus because they can continue to get things ready. They also want to make sure no errors or mistakes are made, and that Shawnee County residents have a quality pool for years to come."

If the pool is able to open on Aug. 16, Zears said people will be able to enjoy it every weekend until the end of the month. Other pools in city and Shawnee County are set to close in early August as children begin returning to classrooms. To learn more about pools and aquatic centers in Shawnee County, click here.

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