A decades-old spot for summer fun, Burnworth Memorial Pool will open Friday
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Steam rises off Burnworth Memorial Pool this morning. The pool will open for the season on Friday. Below, ample poolside seating will soon be filled as local residents relax at the city's pool.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
It’s quite possible that the higher gas prices could have an impact on how many people choose to stay home this summer – and how many choose to find enjoyable warm weather activities closer to home. At least Columbia City parks and recreation department director Mark Green believes this might be the case. 
Green is optimistic that might mean record numbers of residents cooling off at Burnworth Memorial Pool.
Gearing up for the final days until the pool, adjacent to Columbia City High School, opens for the season, Green wants to get the word out that the pool is a great spot for summer fun.
“The gas prices and people staying home might lead to more use (of the pool),” Green said. While people might not justify the expense of driving across too far for summer fun, Green believes the pool is economic enough that many residents might find Burnworth Memorial Pool is an budget-friendly option for staying cool this year.
The pool officially opens this Friday and will remain open until August 9. The pool is open Monday-Saturday from 12-6 p.m. and on Sundays from 1-8 p.m.
General admission to the pool is $3 per person or $2 for the kiddie pool.
Green adds that each Wednesday the pool offers a "free swim" from 4-6 p.m. opening the pool free of charge for the community to enjoy.
Season passes are available again this year. A family pass (good for 4-5 people in the same household) is $120 for the season, a single pass is $45 and a couples pass is $75. Pass holders can utilize the pool on an unlimited basis throughout the summer.
Two-week swimming lessons will also be available.
The Burnworth Memorial Pool has been a favorite summer location in Columbia City for nearly 50 years. In addition to the large pool and the kiddie pool, the facility offers a locker room, changing areas and restroom facilities.
“It’s been around awhile, but it gets a lot of use,” Green added.
Here’s another fun use for the facility: splash parties. Once again this summer, the facility can be rented out by the hour for special events. The fee is $50 per hour.
Green encourages those interested in buying summer passes to get them early and maximize the savings.
For more information on Burnworth Memorial Pool, contact Phil Stanczak at 244-5182.