OSWEGO, NY – Mayor Billy Barlow announced today (Aug. 1) upcoming improvements to the city of Oswego’s Charles E. Gallagher Swimming Pool.
The public pool, located near Fort Ontario, hosts public swimming and swim lessons throughout the summer and is operated by the city of Oswego.
“The public pool is a staple in the Oswego community and is heavily used by city residents. I am proud to make long overdue investments and improvements to the swimming pool and make it a better experience for our children whose highlight of summer is going to the city pool,” said Mayor Barlow. “I want to make the pool more fun for our smaller children and I also believe it is important accommodate those with special needs in our community. The planned improvements will enhance the experience for all and allow more children in our community to take advantage of the public pool.”
The mayor’s focus is to continue investing in public facilities and the city pool “has been overlooked for too long,” he added.
“Our children cherish the pool and we want it to be the best facility it can be,” the mayor said.
The planned improvements include the addition of a stand-up mushroom sprayer and sprinkler to accommodate smaller children and will be handicap accessible.
The city will also add a large sand box to provide a beach like experience for children while they’re using the pool.
Additionally, the city plans to enhance the appearance inside the facility and will add more tables and chairs for parents and pool attendees.
City of Oswego Councilor Pat McLaughlin (D-Second Ward) said improving the public pool has been a priority of his since he took office and says the improvements will be well received by frequent pool users.
“I am happy to work with Mayor Barlow to enhance the city pool and make it a better place for our children and city residents to swim and enjoy their summer. The pool is especially important to our east side residents and I’ve worked hard to advocate for the pool on the behalf of those who use the pool. These improvements are long overdue and I believe will increase the number of people who visit the pool,” Councilor McLaughlin said.
