On July 21, the newly renovated Southwood Park slide was unveiled for public use. (Photo Provided)

PARKERSBURG — The City of Parkersburg has officially closed out the 2025 pool season at both Southwood Pool and City Park Pool, according to a press release from the city.

The season schedule began with weekend-only operations until Wood County students finished the school year on June 9. After that, the pools were open daily through the summer before returning to weekends-only once classes resumed on Aug. 20. The season concluded on Labor Day.

One of the central events of the summer was the July 21 unveiling of the renovated Southwood Park slide, which was formally dedicated to former Parkersburg Mayor Al Smith. The release said the slide provides residents with an enhanced aquatic attraction.

The city highlighted several statistics from the season. A total of 115 private party rentals were held across the facilities. More than 34,000 people visited the pools, including 20,201 at Southwood Park and 13,799 at City Park. In addition, 361 students took part in the Schools to Pools initiative, a program that provides free season passes to eligible children in kindergarten through fifth grade.

“We’re proud of the success of this pool season and the impact of programs like Schools to Pools, which helps ensure that every child in Parkersburg has the opportunity to enjoy our facilities, regardless of their ability to pay,” said Mayor Tom Joyce. “Our investment in pools and parks is about more than recreation–it’s about building community and giving all residents but especially kids a safe, fun environment to learn and grow. The renovated Southwood Park Slide is another example of our continued investment in quality of life for families.”

According to the release, the city credited the season’s success to the efforts of its Engineering Division, Public Works Department, lifeguards and community members who worked throughout the summer.