Dormont Pool won't open for 2020 amid coronavirus concerns

The 100th season of the historic Dormont Pool will go down in its history as the season that never was.

Borough Council voted unanimously Monday to keep the pool closed for the 2020 season because of the complications surrounding covid-19 prevention.

The virus “presents unique challenges to municipalities around the globe,” borough Manager Ben Estell said.

Estell said he recommended the pool not be opened this year “due to the ethical and legal concerns involved with the opening of a large public pool and locker rooms.”

“We searched for ways to ensure the safety of swimmers and lifeguards alike,” he said. “However, no clear and sure method has been found to adequately ensure the health and safety of both residents and lifeguards.”

The pool dates to 1920 and is normally open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.

The borough held off on selling pool passes this year, Estell said.

“We have already issued refunds to those with reservations for other rentals or activities canceled due to covid-19 and would do the same for the pool, as well,” he said Tuesday.

Estell said the borough will save around $100,000 from the pool being closed, because fees for daily entries and season passes do not fully cover its costs.

Maintenance will not be affected, he said.

The pool will not need to be filled, Estell said.

“Unlike more modern pools with liners, Dormont Pool is a concrete pool and does not need water in it during the year,” he said. “Our pumps are inside a building and not exposed to the elements.”

Estell said security is not a concern because the pool is fenced-in, covered by video cameras and in a highly visible area.