By SDCN Editor
San Diego, CA–Mayor Todd Gloria, Councilmember Stephen Whitburn, staff, and dignitaries including the grandson of Bud Kearns cut the ceremonial ribbon to officially reopen Bud Kearns Municipal Pool on Saturday in San Diego.
Located in the Morley Field Sports Complex in historic Balboa Park, the pool, which has been under construction since May 2020, reopened to the community in anticipation of a busy summer of splashing and fun.
“We’re excited for the reopening of this beloved community pool,” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “These extensive renovations restore and enhance the accessibility of Bud Kearns Pool so that it can be enjoyed by all San Diegans for generations to come.”
The $2.5 million pool renovation replaced a number of critical internal operating systems that were originally installed in 1932, as well as a number of improvements to comply with existing County Department of Health Services requirements and ADA accessibility guidelines. A new pool recirculation system and overflow recovery gutter system were installed along with new pool stairs, risers, handrails, and deck edging to improve visibility and safety for the public.
Accessibility upgrades include a new ADA-compliant path of travel leading from the parking area to the pool deck, drinking fountains, showers, and restrooms to bring the historic facility up to current standards.
“Bud Kearns Municipal Pool has been a spot for District 3 residents of all ages to get exercise, learn to swim, or have fun in the water,” said Councilmember Stephen Whitburn who represents District 3. “I am happy that this facility has reopened with the upgrades so that it can continue to be a place for families to enjoy for many more decades to come.”
Once open, the pool is ramping up to offer a variety of programming for all ages including water aerobics, parent and toddler swimming, and group and private swimming lessons. The facility also teaches drowning prevention and other water safety classes.
“We’re ready for Bud Kearns Municipal pool to reopen its doors and provide an array of swimming classes and programs to San Diegans of all ages,” said Andy Field, director of the City’s Parks and Recreation Department. “We want to thank the community for their patience during the renovation process, and we can’t wait to see everyone back at the pool!”
Bud Kearns Municipal Pool originally opened on Jan. 1, 1933, and is the first municipal pool facility in the City of San Diego. In the 1950s, the facility was renamed for former City of San Diego Recreation Director Bud Kearns.
“Bud Kearns knew that sports participation helps young people grow into good citizens,” said John Kearns, Bud Kearns’ grandson. “His work to develop park facilities and recreation programs for all San Diego communities continues in the achievements of today’s Parks and Recreation Department. We thank them for this successful project and for their service.”
