Summer season draws to end as outdoor pool closures announced

By BRENDAN MILLER on August 27, 2025.

bmiller@medicinehatnews.com

The last day for outdoor swimming is coming soon, with closures of pools and spray parks beginning after the Labour Day long weekend.

According to city staff, the last day for swimming at both Strathcona Pool and the Echo Dale Swim Lake, as well as the last day of operation at both the Ross Glen and Saamis Rotary spray parks will be Sept. 1.

Hill Pool will close following Sunday, Sept. 7, though the Kinsmen Aquatic Park at the Big Marble Go Centre will open once again on Sept. 8.

To make sure youth still have a place to beat the heat throughout September, both the Kiwanis Central and Strathcona Island spray parks will be in operation until Sept. 21.

Irrigation

The city plans to begin annual work to winterize irrigation systems by the end of the month and into September.

Residents may notice irrigation systems draining over the next couple weeks, and it will begin in parks that are less utilized.

This is done by ‘blowing out’ the pipes with compressed air and helps prevent damage and repairs caused by freezing water.

Rec and Ride

More than 600 passes were sold to youth, giving unlimited transit rides and free entry to pools and gyms throughout the summer.

The new Rec and Ride collaboration, announced in June between the city and the YMCA, allowed teenagers to purchase a pass for $50 that included bus rides to any location and admission to six city or YMCA locations.

Parks director Scott Richter says the new project was very successful and aligns with the department’s masterplan to promote accessibility by expanding that to transportation.

Transit trips are unlimited, and valid passes are accepted at the Big Marble Go Centre, Crestwood Recreation Centre, Hill Pool and Strathcona Pool, as well as the downtown and South Ridge YMCA locations.

Rec and Ride passes remain active until Sept. 5.

The parks and recreation department has received the Quarter Two City Manager Innovation Award for the program.

Holiday closures

City administration buildings will be closed for the Labour Day statutory holiday on Sept. 1.

There is no planned waste collection on Labour Day and the city landfill will be closed.

Transit service will also be shut down and resume Sept. 2.

The Big Marble Go Centre will be open from noon to 5 p.m. and then resume regular hours on Sept. 2.

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