Buffalo Pound Provincial Park finally has a new pool that is more accessible to all users, after the provincial government shut down the aging structure two years ago.
Politicians, dignitaries and parks staff were on hand for the reopening of the pool on July 17, with the picturesque Buffalo Pound Lake providing a perfect backdrop to the unveiling. Built for $2.4 million, the pool is 360 square metres (4,000 square feet) in size, can accommodate 250 people, and uses universal design principles, including a sloped accessible entry for young children or anyone with mobility conditions.
The pool will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. from now until after the September long weekend. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, a maximum of 50 people will be allowed inside the pool area at one time. Each group will have two hours before lifeguards kick them out to disinfect the area and then welcome in a new group.
The new pool replaces the former structure that the province constructed in 1972 and closed in 2018.
Moose Jaw North MLA Warren Michelson was one dignitary on hand for the reopening event.
“I’m very impressed,” he said. “It feels like a complete park now that the pool’s back.”
Michelson encouraged Moose Jaw residents to swim at the pool, especially since the Phyllis Dewar Outdoor Pool is closed this summer and the Kinsmen Sportsplex pool opens in August. He added that promoting the pool is positive since anything good for Buffalo Pound can benefit Moose Jaw as well.
MLA Gene Makowsky, minister for parks, culture and sport, said he was excited to see the pool reopen and knew many families would also be excited that structure was back in operation.
“It’s a beautiful facility. It will create memories for many more years to come,” he said, adding replacing the pool was one of the provincial government’s priorities. He pointed out the province has spent $10 million recently to upgrade and enhance other provincial parks.
Parks employees noticed a considerable drop in campers during the past two years while the pool was closed, said parks manager Dave Bjarnason. The pool is one of the busiest places in the park.
Bjarnason laid out some steps that the park’s management has taken to ensure users’ safety. Arrows guide people in one direction, there is one entrance and one exit, physical distancing signs are in place, pool staff will regularly remind people about safety, and hand sanitizer is available.
The province has also implemented these safety features at the pools in Cypress Hills and Pike Lake, and so far, the measures have been successful.
