For the first time in recent history, the Millburn Town Pool’s gates will remain closed for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend. The closure is due to the COVID-19 pandemic that has swept the nation, particularly in the tri-state area.

Township officials announced earlier this month that one of the biggest staples of the unofficial start to summer remains closed due to the Governor’s executive orders. While the pool grounds stay eerily quiet, recreation staff and residents are hopeful that the pool will be able to open at some point during the summer. Staff have been preparing the pool for an eventual opening by filling the pools and maintaining the infrastructure that handles the filtration systems. Even if the pool doesn’t open, maintenance still needs to be done to prevent irreparable damage that would occur if the pool’s systems sat unused for the entirety of the summer.

Due to the uncertainty of the Governor’s plans, the pool will continue to remain closed until further notice. An opening weekend will be announced if and when conditions are appropriate.

While the pool remains closed, the town’s par 3 golf course and tennis courts are open for use, provided that members adhere to social distancing guidelines.

For updates on this year’s pool season, you can call the Pool Information Line at (973) 564-7762, or visit the recreation department’s website at twp.millburn.nj.us/recreation.

By Dan Sirota

Dan Sirota is a graduate from MHS ('20) and the former Student Director of Studio 462. He now studies Film & Media Arts at American University in Washington, D.C.