People’s Pool

People’s Pool has installed a much needed Spectator Area, complete with new bleachers. Parents/guardians and siblings are encouraged to use this area (or the Party Room), to observe swimmers during Swim Lessons and Open Swim sessions.

Here’s why it’s important:

• A clean pool deck promotes clean pool water – dirt from the pool deck sticks to swimmers feet, and then gets into the water. We need to minimize foot traffic on the pool decks.
• A clean pool deck prevents slip hazards – dirt and buildup on the deck creates a slick surface.
• A clear, unobstructed path must be maintained for lifeguards to respond to an emergency – spectators lined up along the edge of the pool prevents lifeguards from responding quickly to an emergency.
• Staff will ask guests to take advantage of the new Spectator Area starting Monday, April 11, 2022.

• Children ages 6 and younger (and those older who cannot meet the minimum height requirement 42″), must be within arms length of an adult at all times while in the pool.
• Maximum of two children ages 6 and younger per adult.
• Children ages 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult at pool facilities.
• Children between the ages of 7-9 will be swim tested in order to swim without a parent being in the water with them.
• No diving from side of the pool in water less than ten feet (10) deep.
• Use of mask, fins, and snorkels is prohibited during recreational swims. With adult supervision (one-arm length) small flotation devices are permitted in the shallow end only.
• A cleansing shower must be taken before entering the pool.
• Participants must follow the instruction of the lifeguard at all times.
• Running, pushing, and dangerous horseplay are prohibited.
• Non-swimmers and weak swimmers may not use the deep end of the pool. Individuals may be required to pass a swimming test before being allowed into the deep end.
• Jumping backwards, back-dives, and flips are prohibited off the side of the pool.
• Food, drink, gum and tobacco are prohibited in the dressing rooms or pool.
• All accidents should be reported to the lifeguard.
• Individuals with communicable diseases are prohibited from using the pool.
• Individuals under the influence of alcohol and / or drugs are prohibited from the facilities.
• Proper swim wear required (cut-offs and jean shorts are not allowed)

Diving Rules  (where applicable)

• Check area in front of the board before diving.
• One person on the board at a time.
• One bounce on the board.
• Dive straight off the end of the board
• Attempting fancy dives without a coach or proper training is prohibited.

Lifeguards may ask swimmers of any age to take the test. All swimmers ages 6 and under must remain within arm’s reach of an adult at all times.

Swim Test includes:

• Swim length of pool using forward progress
• Float/tread water for 15 seconds
• Exit pool without assistance
• Wristband System:
  • Green Band = test passed
  • Red Band = lifejacket required

Additional testing may be required based on each facility’s unique features. Swimmers who do not pass must stay within arm’s reach of an adult or remain in the shallow end.

Parks Tacoma wants all of our guests to feel comfortable visiting our pools and other facilities. We adhere to WA State Law and we have a variety of options for changing rooms at our pools. These include our regular locker rooms, and private or family changing rooms.

Guests at our pools are most welcome in the locker room that they feel is correct for them and they will be supported by staff.

The People’s Pool features several differentiated sections, including a three-lane lap pool, a lazy river-style vortex, a shallow end, and a ground-level splash pad and sprayground area with cushioned flooring and peripheral drainage. There is also a marked Spectators’ area near the splash pad.

• Stairs down to the shallow end feature handrails and 6-inch steps down, with a level, sittable drainage strip before accessing the stairs.
• People’s pool also features a poolside mobile Hoyer lift which can be used at different locations around the pool.
• Next to the splash pad are 2 family changing rooms that include child-sized changing tables, curbless showers and wall-mounted toilets with grab bars. The showers feature wall-mounted folding shower chairs, stud-mounted grab bars, handheld showerheads and seated-access faucet controls and soap dispensers.
• An adult ADA changing room is available upon request. Please see a lifeguard for key if the room is locked.
  • Recommended 20 minutes of use at a time during high volume periods.
  • The changing table can support weight up to 440 lbs.
  • A quick start user guide will be available in the room for step-by-step instructions.