BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – On Thursday it was announced that the New River Park Pool will be undergoing a name change to become the Sharon Dempsey Pool.
Implemented in honor of long-time pool employee/manager Sharon Dempsey, the name change for the location was decided upon by Beckley Parks & Recreation Director Leslie Baker and Beckley Mayor Rob Rappold.
Dempsey – who passed away earlier in the year – devoted nearly three decades of her life to working at the pool, and provided swimming lessons to many community residents.
A memorial ceremony will be held in Dempsey’s honor on opening day tomorrow, Saturday, June 4. The pool itself will open at 11:00am, and the memorial ceremony will be held at 1:00pm.
Though a date has yet to be set for the opening of the Historic Black Knight pool location, it is said to be opening at some point next week.
With temperatures in Raleigh County beginning a steady increase over Memorial Day weekend, many residents have longed for a cool dip to offset the heat.
Unfortunately, Beckley’s New River Park and Black Knight pool locations were unable to open their doors for the annual holiday, as lifeguard staff training was still underway for the 2022 season. Prior coverage on this development can be revisited here.
Prices for the pool locations – which will be run by USA Pools – were also announced on Friday.
Both the Sharon Dempsey (New River Park) and Black Knight pools will charge $4.50 admission for children and seniors, and $5.50 for Adults 18+.
Admission for pool & slide at the Sharon Dempsey (New River Park) pool will be $7.00 for children and seniors, and $8.00 for Adults 18+.
Children ages 4 and under will receive free admission, and no pool passes will be sold this year.
Pool hours will be 11:00am – 6:00pm Tuesday to Saturday, and 12:00pm – 6:00pm on Sundays. Pool locations will be closed on Monday.
For more information, visit the City of Beckley website here.
