lifeguardsarticleBrownwood’s newly constructed Camp Bowie Family Aquatic Center opened its doors to the public for the first time on Saturday for residents to enjoy over the holiday weekend and through the rest of the summer.

Lifeguards and pool staff were excited and ready for opening day as they took their posts.  An anxious group lined up at the front gate to be some of the first to enjoy all of the great features the new pool facility has to offer.

City Manager Bobby Rountree and Parks & Recreation Director David Withers were on hand for opening day to enjoy the public’s reaction as they entered the park for the first time.  As Wither’s unlocked and opened the front gate, parents and kids were a little overwhelmed at first.

“It’s interesting to watch the kids look around when they first walk in,” Rountree said.  “They aren’t sure what to do first.”

After a few minutes, a steady stream of people were climbing the tower to go down the slide, jumping off the diving board, trying to cross the lily-pads, and relaxing on inner tubes in the channel current.poolopeningarticle

Normal hours of operation for the pool are Tuesday through Sunday 1pm-6pm.  The pool will also be open on Monday, July 5th for the extended holiday weekend.

General admission for the Aquatic Center is $2 for 12 & under; $3 for 13 & over; seniors 60+ is $1.75.  Season passes for 12 swims will be $20 for 12 & under and $30 for 13 & over.  Rental of the pavilion will be $35 for 2 hrs.  Rental of pool after hours will be $250 (6:30-8:30 with a $100 deposit and $125/each extra hour with 8 lifeguards required).

Top Photo: Lifeguards and concession staff show their enthusiasm just minutes before the pool opened its gate on Saturday.

Right Photo: Brownwood City Manager Bobby Rountree (left) and Parks & Recreation Director David Withers (right) look over the facility before opening day.

See more photos of opening day by clicking the photo gallery below.

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