Galimore Center and community pool nearly ready

City of St Augustine General Services Director, Jim Piggott, told Historic City News reporters that the pool at the Willie Galimore Center should be open by Friday, May 24th, in time for this year’s Memorial Day weekend celebration.

The former deep-water, Olympic style pool was used by the public; as well as groups, like the Flagler College swim team, who once trained there. Under management by the St Johns County Parks and Recreation department, the swimming pool was allowed to slip into disrepair and was ultimately closed by the Florida Department of Health.

“Replacement of the Galimore pool is on schedule and is coming along pretty quickly,” Piggott told reporters. “The City has reached an agreement with the St Augustine Family YMCA to manage the new pool facilities, and they are eager to get started.”

YMCA Vice President, Arlene Dennison, says the pool will be open a total of 53.5 hours weekly on a shared basis between public access and organized classes. Dennison said admission to the pool will be $2.00 for adults and $1.00 for children and seniors.

A shallow wading pool has been added to the swimming area, making is accessible to families with children still learning to swim. Lap swimming will be available at least three days per week, according to Dennison.

The city has already re-opened the Galimore Center’s two function rooms. The large room will seat 143 people in a banquet style and can accommodate up to 280 people for a stand-up event, such as a reception. The smaller room will seat 30 people for dining and 80 people for a stand-up event.

The center features a kitchen, with ice machine, and restrooms sufficient to accommodate large functions. Cost for the facility is $35 per hour and payment of a $100 refundable deposit. The city provides an on-site staff person throughout private events. To check on availability and to book the Galimore Center, call 904.209.4304