Atlanta opens public swimming pools to hire more young people for the summer

ATLANTA — The city of Atlanta is kicking off Memorial Day weekend by offering its residents a cool and fun way to spend the day.

For the first time this year, Atlanta’s city pools are open to the public, and it’s just in time to make a splash for the Memorial Day holiday.

On Saturday, 12 swimming pools were made available for people to come and enjoy.

The pools provide a safe and fun way to exercise, and the facilities also provide opportunities for local youth.

“If you are 15 years or older. Either you can swim or you can’t swim. We will teach you to swim. We’re going to prepare you and get you a job this summer as a pool lifeguard,” Parks and Recreation Commissioner Justin Cutler said.

So far, the city has hired and trained 50 young people to work as lifeguards.

Demario Reeves worked as a teen lifeguard for the city and returns every year to help others benefit from the training.

“I started doing this when I was a teenager, and it’s a constant job every summer, and you’re working for the city. I think a lot of kids don’t feel rushed right now. I’m trying to get everyone to step up,” Reeves said.

Each teen hired is paid $15 an hour.

Reeves said the pool at Grant Park includes a wading area, a wading pool and a 100-yard pool.

He explained that most air-filled floating devices are not permitted.

“Some devices leak into the air. They have a slow leak, and some parents tend to leave the kids and think they’re safe with that, but that’s not the case,” Reeves said.

All swimming pools are open from 12:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Free entry.