NEW ORLEANS — Mayor LaToya Cantrell today joined New Orleans Recreation Development (NORD) Commission CEO Larry Barabino, Jr., NORD Commission Chairman Theo C. Sanders III, District C Councilmember and NORD Commissioner Freddie King III, representatives from Second Harvest Food Bank, and summer camp partners Men and Women of Dynamism, Inc. to officially launch “Splash Day,” marking the start of the City’s summer recreational season and the opening of NORD pools.
“The opening of 17 public pools and the launch of 28 youth and teen camps marks a major step forward in our commitment to safe, accessible, and high-quality recreational spaces in every neighborhood,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “My administration remains focused on meeting our young people where they are through education, recreation, and workforce readiness. With new facilities like the George V. Rainey Natatorium and strong community partnerships, we’re creating more opportunities for families to thrive. I’m grateful to NORD and all who make this possible.”
The celebration featured a special community event at the George V. Rainey Natatorium, where local youth helped mark the start of summer programming available to residents of all ages.
“NORD is excited to kick off another summer full of fun, safe, and meaningful activities for our youth and families,” said Barabino. “Whether it’s swimming, summer camps, sports, or cultural programs, we’re here to make sure there’s something for everyone. I want to thank our partners and staff for the hard work they put in every day. It takes all of us working together to make this kind of impact in our community.”
“This summer is all about creating spaces where our kids and families feel supported, safe, and inspired,” said Sanders. “NORD continues to be a cornerstone in our communities, and I’m proud of the work being done to provide quality programs and facilities across the city. It’s a team effort, and I’m grateful to everyone helping us deliver on the promise of something for everyone.”
“As Splash Day kicked off summer on June 3, I was thrilled to see our community come together to celebrate with joy, unity, and family fun. Events like Splash Day remind us of the vibrant spirit that makes New Orleans home,” said Councilmember King. “It was encouraging to see our NORD campers enjoying the water activities and building connections with their peers, and I look forward to seeing families and neighbors across the city take full advantage of all that NORD has to offer throughout the summer. It truly was a day to remember, and I thank everyone who joined us while staying safe and hydrated in the summer heat.”
Pool Openings and Schedule
The following are open, offering programming throughout the summer on a rotating basis depending on staffing. NORD is continuing to onboard and train lifeguards to expand pool availability citywide:
- Lyons Pool, 624 Louisiana Ave.
- Whitney Young Pool, 6500 Magazine St.
- Stallings Gentilly Pool, 2700 Lapeyrouse St.
- Stallings St. Claude Pool, 4300 St. Claude Ave.
- Pradat Pool, 7200 Dreux Ave.
- St. Bernard Pool, 1500 Lafreniere St.
- Rosenwald Pool, 1120 S. Broad St.
- Federal City Pool, 2200 Constitution St.
- Joe W. Brown Pool, 5601 Read Blvd.
- Sanchez Pool, 1616 Fats Domino Ave.
- George V. Rainey Pool, 1300 Florence Ave.
- Treme Pool, 900 N. Villere St.
- Gert Town Pool, 3411 Broadway St.
Additional pools are expected to open throughout the summer. Sampson, Lemann and Harell pools are scheduled to open in mid-June. A.L. Davis pool is undergoing maintenance repairs and is scheduled to open later this summer. Taylor Pool will remain closed for the season due to an ongoing Stormwater Management Project.
All pools will be used for summer camp Monday–Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pool programming schedules, including Family Swim, Swim Lessons, Water Aerobics, and Lap Swim, are available at nordc.org. Pool hours are subject to change based on staffing availability. Patrons are encouraged to check NORD’s website and social media channels regularly for the most up-to-date information.
Note: Whitney Young Pool will operate Monday–Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. This pool will not host summer camps but will offer all-day lap swim, family swim, and morning aerobics.
NORD is actively hiring lifeguards for both summer and year-round positions. Lifeguards play a critical role in pool operations and community water safety. Currently, 79 candidates are in the recruitment pipeline, with 71 already fully certified. Interested individuals can apply at nordc.org/lifeguards.
In addition to aquatics, NORD offers summer camps, teen career camps, outdoor adventures, cultural programming, fitness classes, athletics, and more. These activities are delivered in partnership with community-based organizations and City agencies to meet the holistic needs of residents.
View the video, here.
Please visit nordc.org for additional information.