Toronto Extends Outdoor Pool Season in Response to Unseasonably Warm September

August 28, 2024 Kelly

Toronto, ON – As the city continues to experience warmer-than-usual temperatures well into September, Mayor Olivia Chow announced today that the City of Toronto will extend operations at ten outdoor pools for an additional three weeks, offering residents a welcome respite from the lingering summer heat. The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Alex Duff Outdoor Pool, one of the facilities set to remain open until Sunday, September 22, weather permitting.

Embracing Extended Summer Weather

With Labour Day marking the traditional end of Toronto’s pool season, this extension comes as a strategic move to address the increasingly unpredictable climate patterns affecting the city. “By keeping pools open longer, we can provide a vital, accessible way for people to have fun and stay cool as we experience warmer and longer summer weather. Extending pool hours is not just about recreation; it’s a strategic response to climate change,” said Mayor Chow.

The decision to extend the pool season aligns Toronto with other major North American cities that have adapted to extended summer conditions in recent years. The pools selected for the extension were chosen based on their location, availability of qualified staff, and adequate lighting for evening use, ensuring that residents across the city can safely enjoy these facilities.

Extended Pool Hours and Locations

The ten pools with extended operations will be open from 4 to 7 p.m. on weekdays and from noon to 7 p.m. on weekends. These pools are:

Alex Duff Outdoor Pool – 779 Crawford St.
Donald D Summerville Outdoor Pool – 1867 Lake Shore Blvd. E.
Alexandra Park – 275 Bathurst St.
Riverdale Outdoor Pool – 550 Broadview Ave.
Heron Park Community Centre – 292 Manse Rd.
McGregor Community Centre – 2231 Lawrence Ave. E.
Goulding Park Community Centre – 45 Goulding Ave.
Broadlands Community Centre – 19 Castlegrove Blvd.
Pine Point Arena – 15 Grierson Rd.
West Mall Outdoor Pool – 370 The West Mall

Leisure swim will be available at all ten locations, with lane swim offered at select pools. Meanwhile, the City’s other outdoor pools will close as scheduled on Sunday, September 1, at 4 p.m., and all wading pools will also close on that date.

Splash Pads and Beaches Extend Season

In addition to extended pool hours, the City’s 140+ splash and spray pads, which have been a staple for families since mid-May, will remain open until Sunday, September 15. These facilities will operate daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., providing families with additional options to beat the heat.

For beachgoers, Toronto’s lifeguard-supervised swim zones at Woodbine Beach, Kew-Balmy Beach, Cherry Beach, and Sunnyside Beach will continue from Tuesday, September 3, through Sunday, September 8. Lifeguards will be on duty between 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m., ensuring a safe environment for those looking to extend their summer by the lakeshore.

Dogs Dive In

To close out the outdoor pool season, the City will once again host its popular dog-only swim events. These free events, set to take place on September 1 and September 22, will allow canine companions to enjoy a splash in the pool before the facilities close for the season. Participating locations include Greenwood Park, High Park, and North Toronto Memorial Outdoor Pool, among others. The dog swims will occur during the last two hours of the operating season.

Community Impact and Accessibility

Mayor Chow emphasized the importance of these extensions in promoting not just recreation, but community health and well-being. “Extending pool hours is a way to make sure that everyone in our city can enjoy the outdoors, stay active, and feel connected to their community, especially as the summer heat lingers,” she said.

Residents seeking more information on extended outdoor pool hours, splash pads, or dog swim events can visit the City’s Swimming & Water Play webpage or call 311.