Summer 2020 officially started on Saturday, June 20, at 4:44 p.m. CST – the summer solstice. That’s when the Earth arrived at the point in its orbit where the North Pole is at its maximum tilt toward the Sun, resulting in the longest day and the shortest night of the year. On this day, even the shadows were the shortest they’d be all year! Here in Kansas, we’ve already been enjoying quite a few beautiful, hot, summer-like days … and what better way to cool off than at the local swimming pool?

SKT has six public swimming pools within its service area. Although the summer solstice stands unchanged, there will be some changes this season at our local swimming pools, due, in part, to COVID-19, but also to allow time to focus on repairs and upgrades needed at two of the six. So, while the Burden City Swimming Pool and Howard City Pool will remain closed this summer, the Belle Plaine Municipal Pool, Cedar Vale City Pool, Clearwater Aquatic Center, and Dexter Community Pool are open.

And, as in past years, SKT is pleased to provide FREE Wi-Fi at the pools all summer long. No password is required. So, look for SKT’s banners at the Belle Plaine, Cedar Vale, Clearwater, and Dexter pools and remember that although things may look a little differently this summer, some things remain the same. SKT will continue providing the best internet experience possible to our valued customers – even at the pool.

Tina Gage, Dexter Community Pool Manager, says, “I am so happy that the pool is open and that the Dexter City Council is committed to supporting the community’s kids by providing a place for them to go. The pool has been busy, with so many people glad to come cool off.” Tina is a teacher and she likes to be able to bring her laptop to the pool and work, using the free Wi-Fi provided by SKT. She adds, “Everyone loves being able to get on their iPods and phones here at the pool!”

Following are the hours of operation and other information for the four public pools that are open this summer: