New Iberia City Park will become quite the oasis this summer.

The Cyr Gates Community Center’s public pool, located inside the park, caused quite the splash Wednesday as friends, neighbors, and relatives flocked to the watering hole to beat the sweltering heat and have a good time.

Superintendent of New Iberia Parks and Recreation Heather Dominique said this first week is expected to bring in about 150 swimmers per day. Opening day at the pool found about 135 children and parents making the most out of a hot day in June.

The pool will be open from 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays until July 28.

“I feel really good about the pool being opened we moved here from Lafayette this year,” Jolaina Collins said, who brought her five-year-old son Kevin Roberts out for a swim. “I found out about it and was glad it would give the kids something to do.”

16-year-old Keydrain Calligan will be perfecting his cannonball jump at the pool this summer and is glad to be doing so with friends.

“I came out here to have fun and stay cool with all my friends,” Calligan said.

12-year-old Dre’shond McCurtis from Franklin was at the pool Wednesday to show his aquatic skills as he just learned how to swim three years ago. 

“I like to come, especially now that I know how to swim, it’s better because it keeps me from drowning,” McCurtis said.

Safety is of utmost importance to the lifeguards and NIRD staff in charge of the pool this summer. Dominique has several reminders for area parents and children to keep in mind when they come to the pool.

“We definitely want them to put on sunscreen and come out with the mindset of safe fun,” Dominique said. “We know they are excited but we do require that parents come into the pool with any children 10 or under, anyone over the age of 10 can come in with their friends and swim alone.”

16-year-old Mary Claire Domingue, one of the new lifeguards this year, says she is prepared for the responsibility of keeping swimmers safe. 

“I keep my eye on them,” Domingue said. “I’m looking for people who are drowning, running, fighting to make sure they stay safe.” 

Along with fun at the pool, the NIRD is offering swimming lessons at varying levels for two week sessions and prices ranging from $30 to $45 a session. Mommy and Me time is also offered for baby swimmers and toddlers, aquatic therapy, aqua fitness and classes for lifeguard training are also being offered this summer.

For a complete menu of prices and sessions you may contact City Park at 369-2337.