King County outdoor pools open this weekend

Here's one more sign that summer is just around the corner: The Cottage Lake and Vashon outdoor pools will be open for business this weekend as the King County Parks and Recreation Division kicks off the outdoor swimming pool season.

Cottage Lake Outdoor Pool opens Sunday, June 11, at 11:15 a.m. for rentals, and at 1:15 p.m. for public swimming. The Vashon Pool, which features a high-speed circular water slide, also opens June 11, with an adult and senior lap swim at 11:30 a.m. and public swim at 1 p.m.

Both pools will offer a variety of programs seven days a week through Labor Day.

Special programs for the summer of 2006 include float-in movies and “summer splashtacular,” a water safety and boating safety event for the entire family. Other activities at the pools include swimming lessons for all ages and abilities, public swims, water exercise programs, family swims and adult lap swims.

The pools can also be rented for special occasions, such as birthday parties, family gatherings, neighborhood get-togethers and group activities.

For more information about pool schedules, swimming lessons and rentals, call the Cottage Lake Pool at 206-296-2999, the Vashon Pool at 206-463-3787, or the Aquatics Supervisors Office at 206-296-7643. Printed pool schedules will be available at each pool beginning opening day.

Admission to the pools is $3.25 for one hour public swims, and $5 for adult lap swims. Senior citizens pay a reduced price of $3.25. Three-month pool passes are available for individuals and families, and start at $116.96 for youth and seniors. Adult passes are $170.54, and family passes sell for $299.21.

The fee for swimming lessons depends on the type and size of the class.

The Cottage Lake and Vashon outdoor pools are geared toward family swimming. The Vashon Pool is 25 yards in length and is especially well-suited for lap swimming.

Cottage Lake Outdoor Pool is located in King County's Cottage Lake Park, east of Woodinville, at 18831 NE Woodinville-Duvall Rd. Vashon Outdoor Pool is located just off the Vashon High School Campus at 9526 SW 204th St. More information on King County Pools is available at http://www.metrokc.gov/parks/pools/pools1.htm