With a splash and a smile, Mayor Lucas kicked off the city’s summer pool season in his usual fashion—by taking a ride down the The Grove Pool’s new slide.
Kansas City Parks & Recreation Director Chris Cotten welcomed everyone and shared details of our 2025 investment in aquatic facilities across the city. This summer, residents can look forward to more accessible, safer, and more enjoyable aquatic experiences thanks to over $6.5 million in upgrades.
“We’re not just opening pools—we’re investing in neighborhoods, families, and the memories we’ll all make together this summer,” Cotten said during the ceremony. “From the Northland to the Westside, we’re building spaces where everyone can cool off, connect, and have fun.”
Highlights of the citywide aquatic improvements include:
- The Grove Pool: Host to Friday’s ceremony, it received $194,000 in updates, including essential maintenance and a brand-new waterslide—used ceremonially by the Mayor to kick off the season.
- Gorman Pool: Upgraded with caulking work and a new point-of-sale system to streamline entry and improve service.
- The Springs Aquatic Center: Debuting a new $380,000 play structure later this week.
- Ashland Square Park: Now home to a $1.4 million sprayground that opened just last week.
- Tony Aguirre Community Center: Set to unveil a new $4.4 million outdoor pool in early July, bringing additional aquatic access to the Westside.
Cotten also recognized the Parks Board of Commissioners, city staff—including a special shout-out to Aquatics Manager Donald Strother—and community partners for making the improvements possible.
Friday’s celebration follows the successful Memorial Day weekend opening of city spraygrounds and sets the stage for a summer of fun, fitness, and community connection.
