News Summary
Grand Rapids has introduced a new Outdoor Pool Season Pass program, offering free access to city pools for residents aged 17 and under. Launching on June 6, this initiative, managed by the Parks and Recreation Department, aims to support families amid rising living costs and promote summer swimming. Parents can register their youth online for unlimited access to three public pools, making it easier for families to enjoy safe and supervised swimming experiences. The season runs from June 6 to August 16, 2025, with affordable pass options available for residents and non-residents alike.
Grand Rapids has announced the launch of a new Outdoor Pool Season Pass program aimed at providing free access to city pools for residents aged 17 and under. This initiative, part of the Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department’s efforts, encourages local families to take advantage of summer swimming opportunities as they prepare for the pool season that opens on June 6.
The program allows parents and guardians aged 18 and older to register their youth online for a season pass, which will grant them unlimited access to city pools throughout the summer at no cost. Nicole Braunschneider, the aquatics coordinator, explained that this initiative seeks to assist families facing rising living costs while recognizing the importance of city pools as vital summer destinations for children.
Participants will gain access to three public pools: Briggs Park, located at 350 Knapp St. NE; Richmond Park, at 1101 Richmond St. NW; and Martin Luther King Park, at 1200 MLK Jr. St. SE. The program simplifies pool visits for parents, making it easier and more affordable to enjoy supervised swim days.
To enable quick access, the improved pass system allows for seamless entry at all three locations. Passholders can either pick up a physical card for convenient scanning at the gate or have their membership details verified by staff at the entrance. Cards will be available at the Parks and Recreation Department offices at 245 State St. before the pools open, or they can be collected on the first visit to the pool.
The pool season runs from June 6 to August 16, 2025. For a nominal fee, residents can secure a season pass for their children, with pricing ranging from $5 to $10. Non-residents can also purchase a season pass, which costs between $10 and $20. Daily admission rates for the 2025 season will be made available. Alongside the pools, the city offers 15 public splash pads that will remain open through September 14, allowing additional water recreation opportunities for families.
All three outdoor pools will operate under the same hours: from noon to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sundays. It is mandatory that children aged 11 and under are accompanied by an adult while using the pools.
This new program reflects a commitment to ensuring that every child has access to safe and enriching spaces during the summer months. Families interested in obtaining a pool pass or seeking more information about the program can visit the official Parks and Recreation website.
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Additional Resources
- MLive: Free Pool Access for Grand Rapids Youth
- Wikipedia: Grand Rapids, Michigan
- WZZM13: Grand Rapids Outdoor Pool Pass Program
- Google Search: Grand Rapids pool access
- Wood TV: Free Pool Passes for Kids
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Swimming
- Wood Radio: Grand Rapids Pool Program
- Google News: Grand Rapids pool season
