SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Wednesday's scorching hot temperatures are sending people indoors by the AC or in the water outdoors. Now, there's a new place for people to cool off in Lackawanna County.
Cooling down from this extreme heat is what dozens are doing here today at the redesigned Weston Field pool. It is specifically designed for children and their families to enjoy. It is also a preview of what the city can expect to see more of in the future.
Buckets of pouring water, a blue swirly slide, and family fun under the scorching hot sun are all part of Scranton's new, coolest addition.
"It's been so hot and this is perfect, perfect," said Theresa Payne of Scranton.
Wednesday marked the grand opening of the 4,400 square foot Weston Field Pool. It's ADA accessible, kid-friendly, and offers splash pad features.
Lifeguards are also on duty during swimming hours, ensuring safety for children and families.
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"We are so excited to have everyone out, and we want to make sure we stay hydrated though and everyone wears their sunscreen," said Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti.
City officials say this complex cost $3.6 million to build. It is now one of three pools currently open in Scranton for this summer, with a fourth in the making for next year.
Just a few miles over water is being pumped into this new Nay Aug Park pool, not for swimming but for testing, with construction still having a ways to go.
"These are expensive to build, and we want to build them right. We are going to keep being creative with the funds we do have and making sure to maintain these facilities as well, and budgeting for that maintenance. We need this pool to last a very long time," explained Mayor Cognetti.
Payne hopes to see that be the case too, but says the new addition at Weston Field is already making waves.
"The pool and the park area has grown and it's changed, and it's nice to see funds in the right direction going toward the community," stated Payne.
At the Weston field pool, Mayor Cognetti says there will be other additions coming soon that include creating more areas of shade.
As for Nay Aug, when 28/22 News was there this morning, crews were working on the shower and restroom areas.
They anticipate the project being done by next summer and also costing upwards of $3 million.
