After a nine-month closure due to Hurricane Helene, the Roy Jenkins Pool has finally welcomed back swimmers, according to a recent update from the City of Tampa. As the summer temperature begins to steadily increase, residents can once again dive into the historical pool, which has undergone substantial repairs totaling in excess of $600,000. The renovation included replacing essential facilities such as pool pumps, filters, air conditioning, and even the elevator, which had all been ravaged by the storm's fury.
Hitting the ground running to fully restore the well-attended pool required concerted efforts from multiple City of Tampa departments. According to the City's announcement, Parks and Recreation Director Tony Mulkey observed, "The reopening of the historic Roy Jenkins Pool represents another piece of the community that has been restored after the impacts of last fall’s devastating hurricanes." Mulkey emphasized the facility's role in providing health, wellness, and crucial water safety training to Tampa's residents.
Prior to the hurricane-induced suspension, Roy Jenkins Pool was a bustling hub of aquatic activity. In the year 2023, the pool recorded an impressive attendance of 28,880 visitors, contributing to a citywide pool attendance peak of 161,082. With repairs complete, the pool is ready to welcome the community back, offering relief from the heat, and a space for learning and exercise.
The newly reopened pool has now published its summer schedule, which includes extended hours Tuesday through Thursday from 7:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M., split sessions on Fridays, and weekend hours conducive to family outings. City residents can look forward to enjoying the pool from 7:00 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. and then again from 2:30 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Fridays, with Saturday hours from 7:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., and Sunday from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. As the mercury rises, the Roy Jenkins Pool stands ready to serve as a focal point for community recreation and respite in Tampa.
