Swimming pool set to open June 14

Duncan Cruickshank, the Town of Cathlamet’s Public Works Superintendent, likened this year’s opening of the Julia Butler Hansen Municipal Swimming Pool to the last minute production of a Broadway show.

“Will it work? Will everyone show up?” he wondered.

The propane heater is scheduled for maintenance this week and the main pump has yet to be tested, according to Cruickshank. On the bright side, a new liner has been inserted and a local electrician is almost done installing underwater lights.

“I anticipate some really popular evening swims with lights glowing around the pool,” Cruickshank said.

Work had been ahead of schedule, but the recent heat wave had Cruickshank worrying about water conservation and he stopped filling the pool with water.

“We were going to use the solar heat for almost a week, Cruickshank said. “Now we will be lucky if we can solar heat for a day or two.”

If all goes well, Cruickshank hopes to have the pool open on June 14. Most of the day will be reserved for lifeguard training and orientation, but they may open it up to the public for a few hours.

Wednesday, June 15, should be the official opening day, with the schedule of lap swimming, water aerobics, open swim and more in effect.

For pool schedule and fees go to: http://www.townofcathlamet.com/SwimmingPoolInfo.shtml.