Author Archives: athenapools

Despite controversy, chair lifts still required for public pools

New requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act state that public pools must be made accessible to people with disabilities. As such, chair lifts must be installed in all public spas, swimming pools, and wading pools by January 31, 2013, for ease of entry and exit.

This January 2013 date is an extension of the original March 2012 deadline, but many public pools are still trying to fight the order.

Public pools are against these requirements because the chairs cost nearly $8,000, and many pools will now need to hire lifeguards to operate the devices. This is a major concern for pools that do not normally have lifeguards on staff.

If you or a loved one is looking for a custom pool builder in order to change your backyard into the perfect outdoor get-together spot, contact the Austin custom pool builders of Athena Pools by calling 512-914-0554 today and learn more about the custom pool building process.

City of San Angelo hosts grand opening for swimming pool

The city of San Angelo hosted a grand opening for a swimming pool that has been closed for two years for renovations.

The new pool was unveiled on Saturday after $3.2 million of modifications, although it has technically been opened since Memorial Day. This has been the pool’s first major renovations since 1938 and city officials are hoping that they will help make the city more fun and ‘desirable.’

The pool goes to 4 feet deep, but many are excited about the addition of water slides. Although, the pool has opened, city officials continue to make arrangements and are hoping to add a lazy river and tanning area.

If you or a loved one is interested in having a pool installed in your home, contact the Austin custom pool professionals of Athena Pools today.

Swimming pool choices: Salt water vs. chlorine

The addition of a swimming pool to the family’s backyard is typically very exciting. It is important to be fully aware of the options and responsibilities that you will have as a pool owner so that you can install the pool that is right for your needs.

One of the most significant decisions to be made is whether you a traditional chlorine pool or a salt water pool will be built. Each has its own benefits, but many people are unaware of those associated with salt water pools due to their smaller number.

A salt water pool uses a salt chlorine generator to convert the salt into mild forms of chlorine. This chlorine is then slowly released into the water to kill bacteria that may be harmful to swimmers without exposing these individuals to potent chemicals that could irritate the skin. Many who have this type of pool have stated that they are much easier to maintain because there is no need to add chemicals regularly.

If you are interesting in having a custom pool built and would like to learn more about what to consider during the process, contact the Austin custom pool professionals of Athena Pools today.

San Antonio pools now open for summer swimming

The San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department has announced that 24 public pools in the city are now going to open. All of the pools will be free to the public.

Nineteen of the pools will have the same hours which will be Tuesday through Sunday 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. The other pools will be open Tuesday through Friday and will be accessible from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The later hours are meant to accommodate families that work late and want to help keep their families active in the summer months. The pools will also be offering swim lessons as well as senior swim activities during the weekdays. Twenty of the city pools will close on August 20.

For more information on city pools in the Central Texas area, visit News WOAI today.

Pool safety tips

This is the time of year that pool owners have an opportunity to appreciate their investment. Pools are the center of many summer outdoor activities because of the sunshine and heat that comes along with the season. While they can be fun and exciting, it is important to remain mindful of safety.

The American Red Cross along with the Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend that pool owners do not let anyone swim unsupervised because every year, nearly 400 children drown in pools and another 5,000 are treated for injuries sustained in and around the swimming pool.

Installing pool alarms and gates that surround the pool can also a yield significant safety improvements. This way you will know whether or not anyone is near the area. It is also advisable to keep emergency equipment on in case it becomes necessary to respond to an incident.

If you are considering the installation of a swimming pool, it is advisable to consult with an expert. Contact the Austin custom pool professionals of Athena Pools by calling 512-914-0554 today.

City of Phoenix to extend hours at nine pools

The city of Phoenix has announced that due to extra money in their budget, they will be extending the summer hours at nine pools.

On weekends through Sept. 3, nine pools will be open from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and admission will be $3 for adults and $1 for children. Also, the pools will offer classes, such as swim lessons and water aerobics, throughout the summer. Other pools that will not remain open until Labor Day will close July 29.

While public pools are a wonderful resource, there is something truly special about having a pool in your own backyard. If you or a loved one is interested in having a swimming pool installed , contact the Austin custom pool professionals of Athena Pools to discuss the benefits of a custom pool.

Pools, hot tubs offer relaxation and fitness

Swimming pools not only offer a great place to cool down and relax, but they also offer a place to exercise and relieve stress.

If you have limited space in your backyard, you should be aware that there are alternatives available to allow for aquatic entertainment. Hot tubs and lap pools, for example, offer many of the benefits granted by a swimming pool.

Swimming is a low impact fitness regime that can help you stay in shape and cause you little pain. Many retired athletes have issues with their hips, back, or knees and are able to remain fit by utilizing a lap pool.

If you or a loved one is looking for a custom pool design for your home, speak with the Austin custom pool specialists of Athena Pools today by calling 512-914-0554.

Republic of Texas biker rally takes place in Austin this weekend

This weekend, the city of Austin will be hosting the Republic of Texas biker rally and thousands of motorcyclists have already made their way into the city to participate in the events.

According to KVUE news, the gates to the Expo Center opened at 8 a.m. today and kicks off the four day event of camping, music, vendors, and bike riding. This rally is the largest one in the state of Texas.

Motorcyclists go out for rides during most of the daytime, but Friday many will participate in the ROT rally parade that will take place downtown and result in the closure of multiple streets near Congress Avenue.

The no refusal policy will begin at 9 p.m. on Friday and continue through the weekend. During a no refusal weekend, a person must submit to a blood test if they refuse a breathalyzer test.

High summer temperatures are sending Texas residents to the pool

Cities in the state of Texas have now opened up their pools in order to help residents in the city cool off. The city of Lubbock opened four swimming pools since the temperatures have hit over 100 degrees.

Lubbock Parks and Recreation opened four swimming pools for a summer schedule. Most of the pools will be open from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

Along with the opening of pools comes with the the beginning of swim lessons for young children. The pool temperature will be around 67 degrees and is a great way to keep your kids cool and active during the summer months.

If you are considering having a custom pool built so that you can have a great place to enjoy the summer months, contact the Austin custom pool builders of Athena Pools today by calling 512-914-0554.

ADA standards deadline now pushed back to January

The deadline for the Americans with Disabilities Act guideline enforcement for lifts to be installed into public pools has now been pushed back until January 31.

Hotel managers and other public pool operators have been given more time in order to install the pool lifts because manufacturers of these lifts have a backlog on the number created because they have never had to make this many before.

The original deadline for the installation of these lifts was supposed to be March 15, but this was then pushed back until this past Monday and has now been pushed back even further.

The reason that the wheelchair lifts must be installed is because standards of the Americans With Disabilities Act states that “the provision of accessible entry and exit to existing swimming pools, wading pools and spas.”

If you or a loved one has is interested in having a custom pool installed in your home, contact the Austin custom pool specialists of Athena Pools today to discuss how to transform your backyard into one you have always wanted.