Expanding opportunities for San Diegans to swim for free and enjoy water-based fitness classes, the City of San Diego is using a grant donation from Price Philanthropies Foundation to improve access and programs at the City Heights Swim Center, one of 15 public pools in the city.

Last week, the San Diego City Council approved the donation of $335,200 to support expanded hours and programming over the next year at the City Heights Swim Center, which is located on Landis Street as part of the City Heights Recreation Center.

The funding will allow the pool to open seven days per week – instead of five days available now – increase hours of operation, and will eliminate entrance fees for public swimming, making it free for public access during the summer season. Additional lifeguard services, water fitness classes and youth water-based camps will also be funded through the grant.

“Having access to water, learning to swim, and preventing drowning are vital services provided by the Parks and Recreation Department’s Aquatics team,” said Andy Field, Director of the Parks and Recreation Department. “This partnership with Price Philanthropies is making it possible for even more young San Diegans to be able to take advantage of these life-saving programs while enjoying the pool.”

Over the next 12 months, the Price Philanthropies funding is expected to support approximately, 1,000 water fitness participants, 3,000 adults in lap and recreational swim, and 7,170 children in lap and recreational swim.

“Significant time and resources were spent rebuilding the City Heights Pool and we want to maximize its potential community benefit,” said Jennette Lawrence Shay, Chief Operating Officer for Price Philanthropies. “Now more than ever, it is important that City Heights residents, and youth in particular, have access to vital resources like pools, parks and recreation.”

The donation complies with all applicable City laws, policies, ordinances and resolutions, and will be used primarily for staff charges related to the extra services to be provided at the City Heights Swim Center.

For more information about City swimming pools, schedules and classes, visit the Parks and Recreation Department Pools webpage. Recruitment is open year-round for Pool Guards and Recreation Aides, for anyone interested in working at a City pool. Positions are available full-time and with benefits.

Price Philanthropies  is a private family foundation, founded by retail entrepreneur and philanthropist Sol Price and his wife Helen. Its mission is to improve life opportunities for underserved youth and families, and their communities.