Stay Cool in the Noble Park Pool

By Cassie Johnson

We missed a lot of pool time thanks to the pandemic but that’s all about to change because the Noble Park Pool is opening soon! The pool is scheduled to open on June 19, although this date could be delayed by a staffing shortage. Paducah Parks Department is currently hiring the life guards and pool attendants they need to staff the pool.

Once open, swimmers can jump in each Tuesday through Sunday until closing day on August 8. As with many activities that are reopening, there will be some new rules and regulations in place for everyone’s safety.

“2021 at the pool will be a little different,” said Taylor Morsching, Recreations Superintendent for Paducah Parks. “We are very excited to open the pool this summer but it won’t be our normal setup. The changes we have made will allow individuals and families to safely enjoy their pool experience.”

In addition to its normal rules, all current Kentucky state guidelines for swimming pools will be followed. This includes wearing masks while inside the pool house to pay admission, walking through the locker rooms, and using the restrooms or showers. When out on the pool deck, masks are recommended only if you cannot maintain social distancing. Masks will not be required while in the pool or at the spray pad.

The biggest change families will notice for 2021 is that each pool day will be divided into two sessions. Swimmers can come from 12 to 2pm or 3 to 5pm, Tuesday through Sunday. Capacity will be limited to 150 patrons per session. Everyone will have the opportunity to make reservations in advance, but walk ups are welcome. Reserving your time slot will ensure you’re not disappointed if the pool is full. For more information on reservations visit paducahky.gov/noble-park-pool. Please note that weekend evening pool reservations are not allowed this year.

“The sessions were put in place so that our staff can have more time to clean and sanitize,” Morsching said. “Again, this is to ensure the health and safety of everyone. On beautiful summer days, we may reach capacity quickly since we are also trying to accommodate many of the summer camps that attend the pool during the summer.”

Admission prices have also changed this year. Children 4 years and older and adults are $3 per person, Children 0 - 3 years are $1 each. Please note that the prices are per person and per session. You can purchase a season pass for $50 each or $125 for three passes. Season pass holders are eligible for unlimited use during the 2021 summer season. If you are going to be a regular at the pool, Morsching strongly encourages you to purchase a season pass. You can purchase your passes at the Paducah Parks & Recreation Office at 1400 HC Mathis Drive or at the Noble Park Pool.

Registration is open for swimming lessons. Lessons will be offered for levels, 1, 2, 3, and 4. If you are unsure which level to register your child for, please visit paducahky.gov/swimming-lessons for more guidance. Children must be at least 4 years old to participate. You may choose from sessions held June 15 - 24, July 6 - 15, or July 20 - 29. Classes will be at 10:30am & 5:30pm, Tuesday - Thursday for a two-week time frame. Friday will be used as a makeup day if needed. The price is $40 per child per session.

The concessions stand will be open, but the menu is now entirely prepackaged food. You can see the full menu on the website at paducahky.gov - click on Noble Park Pool.

Lifeguards and pool attendants for the summer season are still needed. The sooner adequate staffing is fulfilled, the sooner the pool can open. For the safety of everyone, the pool is fully staffed each session with a pool manager, eight lifeguards, and five pool attendants. Workers must be at least 15 years old. Both lifeguard and pool attendant positions are available. Apply online at paducahky.gov/human-resources.

Follow Noble Park Pool on Facebook for all updates on opening day or closings due to inclement weather. For any questions, please call Paducah Parks & Recreation Department at 270.444.8508. 