The outdoor pool at O’Brien Park, H2O’Brien, is about to open
bigger and better than ever.

Parker officials are gearing up for another popular poolside
summer, which will begin May 24 and last until Labor Day. The pool,
which opened July 4, 2002, was at capacity on an almost daily
basis.

After last year’s test run, Parker recreation officials spent
$70,000 on improvements to work out the some of the
kinks.

To minimize congestion and provide more room for seating and
picnicking, 8,000 square feet of deck space was installed over
grass.

The deck area was over crowded during times of maximum
occupancy, inspiring some patrons to move their lawn chairs out of
the deck area and onto drought-stricken grass, said Amy Tartaglia
Johns, the recreation department’s communications
coordinator.

About 650 square feet of space was also added to the spray
garden, giving children too small for the slides more room to play.
Riders of the 160-foot and 182-foot slides must be 48 inches tall
or pass a swim test.

Modifications have been made to the “killer blue slide,” as many
Parker officials refer to it as, to slow the ride. The slide was
designed with vertical drops to appeal to older riders.

After many riders received bumps and bruises during their ride
last summer it was closed to install 20 additional feet to the
slide.

Along with physical modifications, some operations have
changed.

Prices have increased about $1 for most swimmers. Recreation
department officials compared admission fees for O’Brien to other
area facilities and found that they were below average. The price
increase will help pay for the pool’s staff and other
expenses.

To give “little squirts,” those 48 inches or shorter, better
access to the water playground officials have designated a special
hour for them. From 9-10 a.m., before the pool officially opens,
the younger swimmers will have access to the spray garden and play
structure.

“The bigger kids’ faster-paced play can be very overwhelming to
toddlers, who often need a parent’s help to operate the nozzles,
etc. on the playground,” Johns said.

Swim lessons for preschoolers will also run during that
time.

The pool will close two hours earlier on weekend evenings, but
will be available for private rentals.

To minimize the amount of time callers are on hold and desk
staff time on the phone, a new telephone system is installed to
answer common questions about the pool’s price, location and
hours.

Patrons can purchase an unlimited season pass which is valid for
the entire summer. It is the best bet for swimmers planning on
using the pool 20 times or more, Johns said.

Unlimited seasons passes range from $70 to $100 depending on the
swimmer’s residence and height. Swimmers shorter than 48 inches and
Parker residents can purchase tickets for a discounted price.