City Hopes to Open Indoor Pool in September 2021

As the City continues to monitor COVID-19 infection rates and the Governor’s guidelines covering assembly in indoor recreational spaces, plans are underway to make it possible to open the Indoor Pool in the early fall.

The Department of Public Works has taken the opportunity of the closure of the pool over the past year to make some necessary improvements. This initial work was completed by DPW staff; however, there is additional repair work needed to correct a leak. Funds are available for this repair, so it will proceed as soon as possible. Throughout the closure, the City has been in communication with representatives of Save the Indoor Portsmouth Pool to coordinate the work and discuss re-opening.

The City also recognized the value of doing a more comprehensive needs assessment while the pool was closed because of the pandemic. Late last year, the City engaged a consultant to do a complete review of the short-term and long-term needs of the Portsmouth Indoor Pool. While the report is being finalized, in essence, the consultant suggested there is a lot of life in the building and infrastructure but there are some updates and improvements that should be made over time.

The Portsmouth Outdoor Pool at Peirce Island will open for the summer season on June 21, 2021. Residents – only -- will be able to make one-hour reservations at the outdoor pool starting on June 1. Use of the outdoor pool is free to Portsmouth residents.