Public pools are being shutdown around New Jersey due to poor air quality
New Jersey's poor air quality is the reason for pools shutting down across the state. All four outdoor public pools in Newark remained shut down for a second day.
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Poor air quality throughout New Jersey is causing township officials to shut down pools and push off outdoor activities in order to keep people safe.
Newark city officials closed all four outdoor pools to campers and the public for a second day in a row, including the one at the Boylan Street Recreation Center. On a hot day, there are often 200 people seeking a chance to cool off or learning how to swim in that pool.
Newark officials say they are waiting to see what happens with the weather before reopening access to the pools this weekend.
“Very, very disappointing. The kids want to come outside and get in the water. The kids want to continue learning how to swim," said Recreation Center Director Bernard Chase. "Hopefully, we will be back and running, hopefully tomorrow."
The other pools affected in Newark include the Rotunda Recreation and Wellness Center, Hayes Park West/Center of Hope Pool and Marquis “Bo” Porter Complex.
The city of Newark is also handing out masks to those who want them at four different locations.
The masks and the closures are the result of smoke from the Canadian and Minnesota wildfires that continues to blow east and pollute the air, affecting 100 million people.
There are other closures of note.
In Teaneck, the pool and splash pad are closed. In Summit, the Aquatic Center and municipal golf course are shut down. In Hanover, township officials are warning members of the Bee Meadow Pool that access may be closed.
If you like to frequent a state park, a message has been sent warning people to limit their outdoor activity. State officials say they hope to welcome everyone back as soon as the air quality gets better.
