Back


Woodbridge News

Print this Page

June 1, 2004

Township Pool Season Previews at Bowtie, Highland Grove Facilities

Visitors to two popular Woodbridge Township pools will find their favorite summer swimming spots awash in improvements

Mayor Frank G. Pelzman says poolgoers at Bowtie Pool in Port Reading and Highland Grove in Fords will enjoy new equipment and repaired facilities courtesy of $195,000 in grants from the Middlesex County Open Space Trust Fund.

Both pools will hold an Open House from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. June 5-6 to show off their renovations before officially opening June 12 on a daily basis for the summer season. The facilities are managed by the Woodbridge Branch of the YMCA, and membership is open to all area residents.

"My thanks to the Freeholders and the YMCA for making this happen," said the Mayor. "This greatly enhances the recreation experience for the families of Woodbridge who have come to enjoy our pools every 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 features a 25-yard pool, waterslide and 3-foot shallow section. A kiddy pool is also available for youngsters. Other amenities include locker rooms, a picnic area and playground. Renovations included new roofs and benches, additional umbrellas and tables, extensive painting, improved fencing, a new waterslide and the re-surfacing and re-sealing of the main pool.

"This grant, and the resulting improvements to our township pools, represent an excellent collaboration between the Township, Middlesex County and the YMCA," said Councilwoman Caroline Ehrlich. "Public pools are a wonderful community-building resource, and Bowtie and Highland Grove Pools have always been area favorites."

Bowtie Pool offers a wide range of special events, says 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."