Springfield Pool Offers More than a Quick Dip

This summer has been a scorcher! And why waste hours on the Garden State Parkway when we have our very own oasis in town, the community pool. Hours of operation are 12-8 on weekdays and 11-8 on weekends. At only $10 a person, you can enjoy the pool for the day if you aren't already a member.

Membership classes vary based on living arrangements and age, running anywhere from $90 up wards to $565.00. Non-residents are also welcomed to join the pool for a higher amount. Weekend only passes are now available as well.

The JCC Camp and the Springfield Swim Team use the pool in the mornings. Matt Bocian, Assistant Manager and Coach at the Springfield Community Pool tells us that the swim team is there every morning, practicing and swimming laps. 

Worried about safety?  There are always at least 3-6 lifeguards on duty at the main pool, and one in the kiddie pool. First Aid is always open during operating hours with highly trained staff. As for rules, they are pretty standard. Here are a few from the 2010 manual. Interestingly enough, "no running" is not in their rulebook. So, we'll add that one from our bad experiences!

-       Parents MUST supervise children in and out of the water at ALL TIMES

-       All vehicles using the parking lot must park "front end in" only

-       All food shall be served and consumed within the Snack Bar area only. No food or beverage is allowed in the pool area

-       Children under the age of 12 are not permitted entrance to the pool area unless accompanied by a responsible adult pool member

-       Street shoes are not permitted to be worn within the pool apron area.

-       Diving is permitted in designated areas only

-       Children under the age of 3 as well as any child who is not toilet trained must wear diapers in addition to a bathing suit in either pool

-       No person is allowed in the pool unless a lifeguard is present

-       No pets or animals

-       No smoking within pool apron

-       No alcoholic beverages

-       No conduct or language which would affect the comfort and safety of others.

As for food, the snack bar got a facelift! In it's first year, Bayway Catering has made a huge statement with its wide variety and reasonable prices. "We have something for everyone's dietary needs," says owner Mike Giunta. And they really do. Their menu has everything from gluten free pretzels, kosher options, peanut-free and vegetarian choices. They are responsible for servicing lunch to 77 campers daily, so they've got their routine under control. Giunta says 4th of July weekend racked in roughly 1,500 guests, which was also confirmed by Matt Bocian in the office.  Mike's son Nicholas shows interest in the family business as well, helping his dad out on Saturday mornings and taking cooking classes. Check out their appearance on "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" below. Their Linden based restaurant, Bayway Diner has a steady hungry crowd and rave reviews.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSaIU1f5TNw

As for the pool overall, it offers everything you need for a hot day; clean, cool pools, shaded areas for resting, comfortable playing/relaxing area and a friendly staff.  Now if only they allowed pina coladas….