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Prairie du Chien to open public pool, new health protocol in place

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By Correne Martin

 

Wacouta Aquatic Park is opening in Prairie du Chien on Saturday, June 6.

With the coronavirus pandemic looming in the background, the pool won’t quite be the same pool that patrons remember, according to Parks and Recreation Director Mike Ulrich. There is a new protocol in place to ensure safety and health for staff as well as users. As government and health guidelines evolve, there could likely be changes to pool procedures throughout the summer.

“We want [patrons] to have confidence in [their] time with us, to focus on the family memories instead of the worry,” Ulrich stated. “We feel it’s important to give as much information as possible about the things we are doing to ensure safety. We hope to see understanding and respect for these guidelines and the staff who will be enforcing them.”

First of all, pool capacity will be reduced to 94 patrons (25 percent current capacity as directed by Crawford County). Once that number is met, patrons won’t be allowed to enter. Of course, guests are asked to respect a 6-foot physical distance from anyone not in their group, and to sit in designated circles within the grass area, leaving the pool deck for walking only.

Blocks of one hour and 45 minutes for open swim will be designated. Then clearing and cleaning/sanitizing of the facility will take place.

Water aerobics will be limited to 10 people for each time frame. 

For lap swimming, only one patron is allowed per lane, in the middle.

There will be no swimming lessons offered at this time, because of the guidelines.

The bathrooms and showers will not be available. Portapotties will be used and cleaned regularly. 

There will also be no concessions, though patrons can bring their own beverages and snacks.

Lounge chairs and picnic tables have been removed. Patrons can bring their own however. Designated social distancing areas will be provided. 

Only one entrance and one exit are designated for the season. 

Distancing initiatives will be implemented for safe use of the diving boards and slides. The upper slide entry area will be sanitized after each use.

The wading pool will be staffed to monitor usage.

Also, a wellness host is being added to the staff. This person will communicate and monitor the new health standards. 

In alignment with these wellness initiatives, there will be multiple hand sanitizer stations. Staff will continuously deep-clean high touch point surfaces. Also, each lifeguard will have their own rescue materials, and lifeguard chairs will be sanitized between users.

Cash-free methods of payment will be available and encouraged. Staff asks that only one family member checks in at the front desk. 

“We are grateful to the city staff and council for helping to make these changes happen for a safe and enjoyable pool experience this summer,” Ulrich said. “They understand that this is important to the community.”

According to national health officials, there is no evidence COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the use of pools. Proper operation, maintenance and disinfection should remove or inactivate the virus.

For more information, including daily rates and annual passes for residents and non-residents, call Hoffman Hall at 326-2985. Beginning June 6, call the pool at 326-8071, check online or go to cityofpdc.com.

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