NYPD presence delays NYC pool openings, trimming summer swim time

New York City's decades-old rule requiring two NYPD officers to be on site before outdoor pools can open led to frequent delays last summer, with parks data showing police were late to 214 pool sessions (about three per day), cutting limited swim time amid lifeguard shortages; the NYPD disputes the figures, citing other reasons for delays like mechanical problems, and parks says there were no full-day closures due to staffing. Advocates call the policy wasteful for public access, while officials frame it as a safety measure. The 2026 season is approaching, with Red Hook Pool’s opening delayed by equipment damage.