WASHINGTON, D.C. — District officials are pointing residents toward outdoor pools and spray parks as warm-weather recreation returns across the city, while also highlighting a new national parks ranking that again places Washington at the top among large U.S. cities.
Mayor Muriel Bowser and the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation said outdoor pool season began with 17 outdoor pools and 35 spray parks opening across all eight wards. The city framed the openings as part of a broader investment strategy in parks, pools, playgrounds, and recreation centers.
The announcement came as the District was named the nation’s No. 1 big city park system by the Trust for Public Land for the sixth consecutive year. City officials said the ranking reflects access, equity, acreage, amenities, and investment across Washington’s public spaces.
According to the mayor’s office, more than 21 percent of District land is reserved for parks, one of the highest proportions in the country. Officials also cited strong performance on park access and park equity measures, arguing that the city’s recreation network remains a core quality-of-life asset for residents in every ward.
Bowser said the continued top ranking was tied to sustained investments in the public spaces residents use daily. The mayor’s office said the start of pool and spray park season gives families more ways to cool off, gather, and use neighborhood recreation facilities as summer activities ramp up.
DPR has advised residents to check current hours, site conditions, and weather-related updates before visiting. Outdoor pools and spray parks may be affected by storms or lightning, and lifeguard safety conditions determine whether pools remain open during inclement weather.
The Washington Herald
editorial@thewashingtonherald.com
Washington, D.C.
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