TOWN OF ROSENDALE, N.Y. -- With warm and humid weather here, people in the Town of Rosendale say they are happy the town’s swimming pool is finally open.
"I know we’re going to really feel the relief, and you know, we’ve had all the kids basically pressing their nose against the fence for weeks now, waiting for this pool to open,” said Town of Rosendale Supervisor Jeanne Walsh. “So we’re glad we are going to be able to finally do that."
"As soon as this interview is done, I’m jumping in,” Maitreya Motel said.
The community gathered to celebrate that opening Thursday. The pool has been closed since 2012. Since then, more than $1.5 million has been raised from grants, fundraisers and bonds.
"The pool was completely demolished, and two brand-new pools were built in its place,” said Walsh.
Officials said this pool means more to the community than just a place to swim.
"We have had a pool in the Town of Rosendale for over 60 years,” said Recreation and Pool Director Tara Burke. "It’s a part of our culture. We have a swim team; we have a summer camp; we have Brookside School that visits with their disabled children."
The Rosendale Swimming Pool is open to the public through Labor Day from 12-8 p.m., except for when the swim team meets.
For kids using the pool, it’s a reason for pure excitement.