High school pool serves residents year-round
By dave goldberg
Staff Writer
NORTH BRUNSWICK — There’s no need for residents to wait for summer to enjoy the benefits of swimming.
"With aquatic activities, residents can beat the winter blues," Parks and Recreation Director Lou Ann Benson said. "There are so many things to do. People don’t realize all of the activities that they can do at affordable fees. They should take advantage of the fact that they don’t have to travel far."
The pool, which is located at the North Brunswick Township High School on Raider Road, is available to all residents of the town, according to Benson.
"The showers and locker rooms are available at no extra charge," Benson said. "Residents may take advantage of the pool by paying $1 per visit, $5 per family, or $35 for a family pass for the entire year which is good for open swim sessions, which are restricted to township residents.
Benson also said that the Department of Parks and Recreation recently created a water aerobics program.
"We have our water aqua-cize program which is our new step aerobics program," Benson said. "This is available for residents and nonresidents for adults 18 and over."
For the more serious swimmers, there are also specific times they can use the pool, according to Benson.
"We have swimmers’ clinic time for serious swimmers to practice starts, strokes, turns and build endurance before the summer swim team season begins. It allows them to think ahead before they join the department’s Summer Swim Team."
The summer swim team is offered for ages 6 to 17, according to Benson.
Benson said there is also lifeguard instruction available.
"The Department of Parks and Recreation also offers an Educational Lifeguard Training Course," said Benson. "The department offers it each year from January to March to help give students an opportunity to get a head start for summer employment. The program is certified through the American Red Cross. Our lifeguard staff consists primarily of high school students who represent our town on the NBTHS Raider swim team. The summer staff is a mixture of returning students and students from the high school."
There are also swimming lessons in the winter for all residents of all ages.
"Winter swim lessons are offered for everyone from babies 6 months old to seniors 99 years old," Benson said. "This is an activity that can be fun as well as an educational opportunity for all residents. This is a great swim lesson program."
Benson also said that the pool is also very popular to use for birthday parties.
"Make a splash at your child’s next birthday party," Benson said. "You can book a party at the pool on a Saturday afternoon. Make sure you book early though, because there is a two-month waiting list because the parties are so popular. It’s an hour in the room and an hour in the classroom. We provide use of a classroom and private use of the pool with two certified guards. You provide decorations and food."
The senior swim is also a very popular event in the department, Benson said.
"Seniors take advantage of this year-round aqua-cize program which meets three times a week on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays," Benson said. "Water aqua-cize is conducted in a friendly, warm environment. It is not only good for you physically, but clears the mind and keeps you alert. It is a great way to meet friends."
The department is very involved with the pool, Benson said.
"From the annual water carnival to senior luaus to special events, we are always creating a wave in the pool," Benson said. "It’s a great environment for everyone involved, so swimmers, take your mark, get set, and join us."
Anyone interested in joining a swim program should contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at (732) 247-0922, ext. 478. Information is also available through the department’s spring and summer brochure and on Cable TV 71.