Following an extended closure as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Victoria’s Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre is set to reopen to the public next month.
According to the City of Victoria, the recreation facility will reopen its swimming pool and fitness centre on Feb. 1.
Residents interested in visiting the facility will be able to register online or over the phone, beginning on January 28 at 9 a.m.
“Access to recreation provides much needed physical, mental and emotional health benefits at a time our community needs them most,” said Mayor Lisa Helps. “Opening Crystal Pool is a significant step in our recreation recovery plan and the safety measures in place allow people to stay safe while they stay active.”
Much like other recreation facilities that have reopened since last March, the capacity at Crystal Pool will be limited due to public health requirements.
Facility-goers will be required to book their visit or register for a program, such as swimming lessons or fitness classes, in order to access the Crystal Pool.
“The City’s priority is safety and all required COVID-19 protocols are in place to create a safe environment for visitors and staff,” reads a statement from the City of Victoria. “Capacity will be managed to prevent crowding and visits will be limited to 90 minutes.”
The City says that masks will be required in all indoor public spaces and are only allowed to be removed when showering, in the pool, or while participating in a sport or fitness activity.
During the pandemic closure, the Crystal Pool says it completed repairs on the air handling system – work that was originally scheduled to take place in 2021.
More information on the facility’s opening plan can be found at victoria.ca/crystalpool.
Graham Cox
