Gov. Greg Abbott announced Monday a series of reopenings as part of Phase 2 of reopening Texas’ economy, including an update on swimming pools and water parks.
Abbott stated in his executive order, GA-23, that swimming pools are considered ‘covered services’ and were allowed to reopen at 25 percent capacity under Phase 1. As of Monday’s announcement, there were no changes to that restriction.
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Public swimming pool openings are determined by the discretion of the owner, so check with your nearby swimming facility to see if they are open.
In Houston, Mayor Sylvester Turner announced that 38 city of Houston swimming pools, 27 splash pads will remain closed during Memorial Day weekend and for the rest of the summer.
Turner said the decision to keep the city’s recreational area closed is due to the current health crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. He also asked the director Houston Parks and Recreation Department, Steve Wright, to keep all the swimming pools closed this summer.
Abbott also stated that amusement venues, including water parks and splash pads are not allowed to open under Phase 2, unless these establishments are added in a future executive order.