Sonoma’s community pool opens and the water’s fine
Sonoma’s long-awaited Community Pool facility has officially opened on the grounds of Sonoma Valley High School.
The two-pool complex formally debuted on October 16 as Sonoma City Council Member Madolyn Agrimonte, School Board Trustee Cathy Coleman, and two young swimmers, Neveah Morales and Colter Martin, used giant scissors for the ribbon-cutting.
Guests were invited to take a tour, look around, and even take a dip. By noon, both pools were filled with swimmers of all ages, participating in everything from water aerobics and Masters swimming to youth swim lessons and water polo. Some 450 people attended the grand opening.
The campaign to find a site and fund the operation came from Sonoma Splash, the nonprofit that had initially planned to build on Verano Avenue. The high school site emerged when the school district got involved and funded construction on school grounds. The school will use the larger pool for sports and PE classes. (It will also decide on an official name)
“We were thrilled with the enthusiastic community turnout for the grand opening event and want to thank everyone for their support – both in bringing this pool to life and helping us open the waters,” said Mary Favaro, Sonoma Splash co-founder. “Our goal is to welcome all community members to this amazing new facility and hope everyone will come on over and jump in!”
The public-access complex has its own entrance, on the east side of the school facing Nathanson Creek and the outdoor athletic fields.
Sample pricing: one day, $5-$10; one month, individual, $52-$75; one month couple, $87-$110; one month family, $123-$150; one year, family, $1,230. More pass info. https://sonomasplash.org/passes/
It will be open year-round. Initial hours are 6 am – 9 pm Monday-Friday, and 7 am – 7 pm Saturday and Sunday. While the school district funded construction, Sonoma Splash will run the day-to-day operation. Heading that up will be Jane Hansen, who previously ran Sonoma Aquatic Club in the Springs. (That site has been re-branded as Sonoma Fit Pool Club under new owner Adam Kovacs.)
