Mayor's Report

As spring arrives, we look forward to warmer weather and the many activities planned for Willoughby in the summer. While the traditional events will continue and are presently being planned, one change this summer is the closing of the Euclid Ave pool.

Since the recent closure announcement, I wanted to address some of the questions and inquiries we have received and read online. At the close of the 2023 pool season, the administration and City Council discussed concerns and challenges at the Euclid Ave Pool. Subsequently, we made the difficult decision to close the pool to ensure the safety of our pool pass members and guests. The closure is due to three primary reasons including:

Safety Concerns: Our top priority is the safety of everyone who utilizes our pool facilities. Recent pool inspections have highlighted areas that require immediate attention to meet the highest safety standards. The most significant concern is that areas of the cement pool floor have disintegrated to about an inch to two inches in some places, which could cause the pool floor to collapse due to the water’s weight.

Operational Costs/Needed Repairs: The Euclid Ave. pool was built in 1965, and wear and tear on the pool infrastructure has become evident. Over the last few years, we have been monitoring these issues closely and making repairs when possible, but it has become apparent that we can no longer keep the pool safe and operate cost-effectively. 

For example, at the start of the 2023 season, the pool lost approximately 10,000 gallons of water daily. We were able to make some repairs, but the pool was still leaking an average of 3,000 gallons of water each day during the 2023 season.

Also, over recent years, the 50-year-old infrastructure, including pumps, pipes, and other equipment, has deteriorated much faster.

Lifeguard Shortage/Declining Attendance: Like many other communities, Willoughby has experienced a national lifeguard shortage since 2020. This shortage affects the hours our pools can be open. Additionally, we have experienced declining attendance at the Euclid Ave pool. 

We remain hopeful that the planning process during the closure will result in a revamped recreational area. Plans are underway to hire a consulting firm to develop a comprehensive master plan for the Euclid Ave Pool site, focusing on integrating an aquatic amenity that meets modern safety standards and community needs.

Additionally, the city will consider expanding its recreational footprint as the current police station located next to the pool will become vacant when the police department relocates.

In the meantime, residents are encouraged to utilize the Osborne Park pool, which will open for the 2024 season with extended hours. Accommodations have been made to ensure the swim team, lessons, and pool parties remain available.

Pool passes for Osborne Pool are on sale now. Please visit our Parks and Rec Department to purchase. And, while there, we welcome ideas for re-imagination of the site. We have already had a great response and will share these suggestions with the design firm. Ideas can also be emailed to parksandrec@willoughbyohio.com.

We appreciate your support during this transition and look forward to sharing updates with the community.