Clark Pool To Reopen As Murphy Lifts Coronavirus Closure

CLARK, NJ — As temperatures reach the 90s this week, Clark announced its township pool will reopen on June 22 amid the coronavirus.

Gov. Phil Murphy announced on Monday that municipal and private-club swimming pools can reopen with rules and guidelines in place.

"Please keep in mind there will be a list of restrictions and I assure you it will NOT be a typical summer at the Clark Pool. With that said, we will do everything in our power to follow the guidelines and restrictions to keep our staff and members safe, but we need your cooperation, understanding and patience," said Clark Director of Recreation Ralph Bernardo.

The hold on online registration was removed Wednesday. Residents must register and pay online at ourclark.com, click Clark Recreation under the Community tab.

For those who can not register online, they can print a membership form off of ourclark.com, fill it out and mail it in with a check or cash. Prices remain the same as last year. Hours will be 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day.

Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli said pools will be allowed to reopen as long as:

• Capacity is reduced to 50 percent
• Staff and patrons must safely distance
• Signs and makings should denote 6 feet of space between people
• Face coverings are recommended, but not in the pool
• Pools should stagger access points for entry and exits
• Reservations are requested
• Guests should sign-in to help with contact tracing
• Occupancy in restrooms should be limited
• Foot coverings much be worn in restrooms and shower areas
• Staff should be screened for fever and COVID-19 symptoms
• Gloves should be worn by staff
• Disinfection should happen frequently
• Pool toys shouldn't be permitted

With only 50 percent of capacity allowed, registration will be on a first-come, first-serve basis and when capacity is met, registration will be closed, and a waiting list will be created.

"We are happy to be able to open the pool this year and we thank the Mayor, [Business Administrator], Council and Health Officer for their undying efforts to open the pool and bring back some fun and enjoyment for our members. We will do all we can to make your summer at the Clark Pool a safe and enjoyable one," Bernardo said.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here. Don't miss local and statewide announcements. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.