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Woodbridge Pools to Open Summer Season June 4 th

Bowtie, Highland Grove pools offer free “Y-Splash” program, family nights

WOODBRIDGE – Outdoor pool season in Woodbridge opens June 4, and visitors to the popular Bowtie Pool and Highland Grove facilities will find their favorite summer swimming spots awash in improvements.

Mayor Frank G. Pelzman says poolgoers will enjoy new benches, umbrellas, tables, improved fencing and new waterslides – courtesy of a $150,000 grant from the Middlesex County Open Space Trust Fund.

“My thanks to the Freeholders and the YMCA for making this happen,” says Mayor Pelzman. “This greatly enhances the recreation experience for the families of Woodbridge who have come to enjoy our public pools each summer. Maintaining our open space and recreational facilities is of prime importance to us, and the Open Space Trust Fund enables us to do that.”

Bowtie Pool is managed by the Woodbridge Branch of the Metuchen-Edison-Woodbridge YMCA and is located across from the Port Reading Fire Department on Port Reading Avenue. Bowtie features a 25-yard pool, waterslide and 3-foot shallow section. A kiddy pool is available for youngsters. Other amenities include locker rooms, a picnic area and playground. Renovations included new roofs, extensive painting and the re-surfacing and re-sealing of the main pool.

The YMCA also manages and operates Highland Grove Pool located at 1 Highland Terrace in Fords. Highland Grove Pool added a new playground and waterslide this year. The season for both pools begins June 4 and continues through Labor Day.

Bowtie Pool offers a wide range of special events, says Bowtie Pool manager Robin Goodrich. “We have Christmas in July, Mardi Gras and Halloween parties, Luau Nights featuring hula lessons, a Jaws Movie Night, teen nights, family nights, live musical entertainment. Beyond swimming and exercise, we want people to use the pool as a social center.”

Enrichment activities available at Bowtie and Highland Grove pools include water exercises, crafts, sports and swimming lessons. The free “Y-Splash” program teaches children and families water safety, swimming skills, rescue skills and character development. Pool staff possess certifications in CPR and first aid as well as YMCA and/or Red Cross lifeguard/swimming certifications.

For information about Bowtie Pool call the YMCA at 732-340-9622; for Highland Grove Pool call 732-346-9622. Online registration for memberships at both pools is available at http://www.metuchen-edisonymca.org/woodbridge/main.htm.