By James B. Bartle
Although the season is still in full swing, parks director Dave Cochran stated that it appears the attendance at the Sullivan Municipal Swimming pool is up in 2010.
“So far, it appears our numbers in attendance are up and very busy this year for the first time in a long time,” said Cochran. “The temperature has been up early this year and steady, which I believe has had a lot to do with our attendance increase.”
Cochran stated that, as with most outdoor venues, is very dependent on good weather.
“If it’s too cool, people won’t come. If it’s too hot, they won’t come. If the temperature is 80 degrees or below, attendance drops and, if it’s over 95 degrees, attendance will drop,” said Cochran. “We’ve been fortunate this year, so far, that we have been in the right temperature window in which people want to come out and swim.”
Daily attendance is not the only thing seeing an increase this season at the pool. Concessions appear to also be up, along with private parties at the pool.
“Our Friday and Saturday pool party schedule is booked up at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. in the evenings. We still have a few dates here and there on a couple Sunday, Monday and Tuesday evenings, but it’s been busy,” said Cochran.
“We will have a family night on Aug. 6, with $1.50 per person to come in and swim at the discounted rate,” said Cochran. “We will also have our Splash Bash with DJ Jim Bartle of Hysteria Sound on Friday night, July 30. Both of these events are open to the public.”
The pool will close for the 2010 season on Aug. 15.
Overall, Cochran reports that the Parks Department has been extremely busy with the various ball leagues, skate park construction, Meramec Community Fair, and the daily maintenance in the parks system.
“It has been a very busy year and things are going well,” concluded Cochran.