Residents can now make a splash at the Budlong Pool, which opened Friday to serve youth and their families in the community. It was a perfect day for the opening with seasonal high temperatures hovering in the high 90s and plenty of sunshine. It did not take long for children of all ages to jump into the water at Budlong.

This year, Mayor Allan Fung did not take a dive into the pool; however he did have some fun dressing in lifeguard attire.

“I am excited that we are once again offering our families and children a safe, fun place where they can escape the heat and cool off,” said Mayor Fung in a press release. “Budlong Pool is a treasure in our city and continues to provide everyone with summer memories that will last a lifetime.”

Fung recalled the times he spent at the community pool in his youth.

Located in the Eden Park section of Cranston, the Budlong Pool is one of the largest outdoor pools in the country, measuring 260 feet by 80 feet and holds approximately 1 million gallons of water. Open during the summer, the pool is a popular spot for people of all ages to cool off during the hot summer months.

The Budlong Pool was built in the 1940s as a Worker’s Progress Administration project. Since that time, the pool only closed for three seasons, once in 1955 due to a polio outbreak and again in 1996 and 2010 for repairs and renovations, and financial reasons.

It is open from late June to mid-August and season passes can be purchased on site. Swim lessons are also available early in the morning.

For specific information on pool opening, rates and swim lessons, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 780-6169. During the months of July and August, when the pool is open, you can call the pool directly at 383-3105.

Text by Meri R. Kennedy, photos by Steve Popiel.