Hillyard and Comstock pools opening at noon

Two new Spokane swimming pools – Hillyard and Comstock – are set to open for public swimming at noon today. They are part of a $28.8 million package of six new pools and 13 new water spray features at neighborhood parks approved in 2007 by voters. Hillyard and Comstock will be operating on regular schedules with open swims from noon to 4 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. Shadle and Cannon pools opened to the public on July 6 and have become popular attractions, especially the newly located Shadle facility adjacent to the green and yellow water tower at Shadle Park. Opening dates for the Liberty and Witter pools in east and northeast Spokane have yet to be determined, but parks officials are hoping they can have at least a limited opening at the end of the summer season to give the public a chance to try out the new facilities. The pools, each of which was custom designed with neighborhood input, combine traditional swimming areas with play features such as slides, beach-like entries and spilling water. The traditional swimming areas are scaled down in size. However, the Witter Pool design will accommodate competitive swimming programs. For information on pools and hours, go to Spokane Parks’ Web site.