Brace yourselves, summer is coming: Keep cool at the base pool

  • Published
  • 509th Force Support Squadron
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  Summer is approaching and the best way to cool off this season is to visit the Whiteman Community Pool ... the outdoor pool, that is!

For many years, Air Force Global Strike Command financially supported the base pool program by allocating funds to cover the personnel expenses required to hire lifeguards. However, current budget constraints have eliminated that funding.

What does this mean to you? As a Non-appropriated Fund (NAF) business activity, the pool must be self-sufficient and maintain a level of profitability in order to remain viable. Without funding allocated for lifeguards, the pool would operate at a fiscal loss. There were several options considered, including elimination of lap swimming, reduction of operating hours, increased fees and charges, and closure of the pool. One other option that was considered was to absorb the loss to the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) fund.This was only a possibility based on the overall strength of our local MWR fund. Through your continued support of force support programming, local NAF businesses, and re-investment into our community, the Whiteman AFB MWR fund remains solid and is currently meeting all Air Force financial goals.

How are we staying open? The Force Support Squadron and Team Whiteman Total Force Enterprise partners have "teamed up" to fund this year's outdoor pool program. Your Outdoor Recreation Program will also incorporate suggestions brought forward during Whiteman Town Halls and marketing surveys.

This season, we will open earlier and close later than previously.  Mondays will remain closed for pool maintenance. However, the Tuesday - Friday operating hours will be 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. During the week, two swim lanes will be allocated for lap swimming enthusiasts, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. every Tuesday through Friday. Saturday and Sunday hours of operation will be noon - 6 p.m. 

You can purchase a family pool season passes for $75, single person season pass for $45, or a daily pass for $2 per visit. Season passes can be purchased at Outdoor Recreation, and pool parties can also be scheduled by calling Outdoor Recreation at (660) 687-5565. Our rates will remain the same as last season to better serve you and hopefully provide a higher cost savings. We hope to see you at the pool this season.