Schlegel Pool offers free admission for Reading residents during heat wave | Reading Area

READING, Pa. – For many families in Reading, summer afternoons usually end at Schlegel Pool.

“I just like that it’s very family-oriented. We come almost on a daily basis. Even after work, we pick up the kids and come here,” said a Reading resident.

That’s why Reading Mayor Eddie Morán announced free admission to Schlegel Pool for Reading residents Thursday and Friday.

“As a staff, we want to make sure that all hands are on deck. We will make sure the staff is also hydrating. We want to explain to the community to make sure you please get in the pool. It’s going to be a hot day. Cool off. Make sure you’re keeping yourself hydrated and enjoying the beautiful Schlegel Pool,” said Daryl Nelson, sports manager with the Reading Recreation Commission.

Staff say they’re ready.

“To make it safe, we want to make sure it’s about 500 to 550 people. We check bags…and we want to make sure all the families feel safe when they come here,” Nelson said.

Lifeguards are ready, too.

“We’ll skim the water, get all that nasty stuff out. Some of our guards will go sweep up there, and if we see trash around, we’ll pick it up,” said lifeguard Aaliyah Perez.

With temperatures expected to feel like the triple digits, officials hope the free admission will make it easier for more families to stay safe and cool. And that’s exactly why so many people come here.

“This is a good place where kids in the city can come and get away from what’s going on for a couple hours. It’s a great environment,” said Julius Young-Trapp, a security guard at Schlegel Pool.

Free admission is available Thursday and Friday from noon until 7 p.m. for Reading residents. City officials say you need to show proof of residency. If the pool reaches capacity, or swimming isn’t your thing, all seven city splash pads will remain open with extended hours from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., through the heat wave.

“As these high temperatures continue, we want to make sure every Reading resident has a place to cool off,” said Mayor Eddie Morán. “Schlegel Pool is open free of charge because the safety and well-being of our community comes first. If you need relief from the heat, please take advantage of it, stay hydrated, and remember to check on family members, neighbors, and anyone who may be more vulnerable.”

All pool guests must wear appropriate swimwear, bags are subject to search, and children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a responsible person, a press release said.