Last summer, due to a budget shortfall, the city closed 27 of its 72 pools, leaving residents in some neighborhoods to complain why some pools were allowed to open while others remained shut.
This summer, several neighborhood groups started fund-raising to help the city raise $600,000 to open every pool.
Through community-organized efforts such as a three-on-three men's basketball tournament, a talent show, and cow-chip bingo, plus donations from big companies, the city was halfway toward its goal. A $400,000 check from First Niagara Bank earlier this month put it over the top.
Any unspent money will be carried over to next year's budget.
Along with supplying a haven from the heat and a place to exercise, city pools create about 800 seasonal jobs, including 400 lifeguards.
DiBerardinis said the pools will be fully staffed, and operate under a standard schedule of opening by July 6, and closing around August 20. They will open on a staggered schedule over the next few weeks.
Over the summer, DiBerardinis figures, more than a million swimmers will splash their way into the pools.
"It's a highly utilized asset," he continued, "and one that provides real relief and enjoyment in neighborhoods."
The pools that opened Friday:
Fox Chase, Rockwell and Ridgeway, 215-685-0575.
Bridesburg, Richmond and Ash, 215-685-1247.
Awbury, Ardleigh and Haines, 215-685-2895.
Mander, 33rd and Diamond, 215-685-3894.
Cohocksink, Cedar and Cambria, 215-685-9884.
Kelly, 281 N. Concourse Drive, 215-685-0174.
Vare, 26th and Morris, 215-685-1876.
The pools opening Saturday are:
Mitchell, Morrell and Crown, 215-685-9394.
Jardel, Cottman and Pennway, 215-685-0596.
Feltonville, Ella and Wyoming, 215-685-9150.
Marion Anderson, 17th and Fitzwater, 215-685-6594.
Lee, Haverford and 44th Street, 215-685-7656.
Contact staff writer Kia Gregory at 215-854-2601 or kgregory@phillynews.com
