Photo: Courtesy of Department of Conservation and Recreation
ROXBURY, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Department of Conservation and Recreation pools across the Commonwealth officially opened for the summer Saturday.
City and state officials celebrated the opening at the Melnea A. Cass Recreational Complex in Roxbury. Despite the cloudy skies and forecast of rain, the three-day heatwave earlier in the week made the opening of the pool and spray deck welcome.
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"It's been a very hot season and we hope that many more young people not only swim here and spend the day with their families, but learn how to swim," said State Senator Liz Miranda.
"Our network of beaches and pools and spray decks and waterfronts all across the Commonwealth, like the Cass pool and spray deck, ensure that everyone has access to safe and welcoming places to cool down during the hot summer months," said DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo.
The Cass complex recently served as a migrant shelter for four months until the end of May. Arrigo said improvements are underway at the complex since the migrants left.
"We’re upgrading equipment and the athletic flooring, repairing the roof and adding new solar panels, and we are planting new trees and so much more," Arrigo said.
DCR officials also said they are looking to hire more lifeguards for the summer season.
WBZ's Mike Macklin reports.
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