BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – For the first time since the 2019 season, both the Black Knight and Sharon Dempsey Memorial – previously New River Park – pools are open to the public.
After some delay and much anticipation from the public, Black Knight Country Club announced Wednesday that the Black Knight pool is now officially open.
What previously had been known as the New River Park pool underwent a name change earlier this month on opening day, having been designated the Sharon Dempsey Memorial Pool in honor of the beloved pool manager from which it takes its name.
While the Black Knight pool has remained relatively consistent in its functionality, the Sharon Dempsey Memorial Pool – which accommodates a significantly greater number of swimmers – has not been operational for the past two seasons due to a lifeguard shortage.
Parks and Recreation Director Leslie Baker, along with Beckley Mayor Rob Rappold, has been working to remedy this issue over the past few months in an effort to ensure that Raleigh County residents would be provided with opportunities to combat the heat this summer.
An agreement with USA Pools eventually came to fruition (more on that here,) and both locations were given the green like to open for the summer.
Per Black Knight Country Club’s announcement of the opening, the Black Knight and Sharon Dempsey Memorial pools will operate on the same schedule, which will be as follows:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday – Saturday: 11:00am – 6:00pm
Sunday: 12:00pm – 6:00pm
Additionally, as a means of ensuring the safety of pool-goers, Baker has confirmed that there will be a swimming test conducted for children under 48 inches tall who wish to explore the deeper end of the waters. Those who are unable to swim will need to remain on the shallow side or utilize a life vest for protection.
The Black Knight and Sharon Dempsey Memorial pools are now open to the residents of Raleigh County.
