Nassau County pools open two days early

Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano announced Friday that all Nassau County pools will officially open Saturday for the 2013 summer season, marking the first time the pools are fully open to the public since superstorm Sandy struck Long Island in late October.

The pool openings come two days earlier than previously scheduled and just in time for the beautiful weekend, Mangano said.

"Nassau County parks and beaches are vital to the quality of life we enjoy in our communities," Mangano said Friday morning at Wantagh Park.

"Since Hurricane Sandy struck our shores, my administration has worked tirelessly to restore the summer destinations families visit the most -- beaches, parks and pools. I invite all residents to enjoy a 'staycation' in Nassau County this summer."

Most Nassau County pools suffered extensive damage from Sandy. Wantagh Park was hit the hardest, with a lot of electrical damage caused by saltwater throughout the park and marina.

Major repairs were needed in Lido; Nickerson Beach's West Pool needed a new filter and new pumps, while its East Pool got new float valves and all new wiring.

In North Woodmere Park, the north pool received new filters and all of the pipes have been reinforced with new hardware, while the south pool got new pumps and all new wiring.

Nassau County's pool complexes include three comprehensive "water theme" facilities: Cantiague Park in Hicksville, which suffered no damage from Sandy, North Woodmere Park and Wantagh Park. They incorporate Olympic-sized swimming pools, diving pools, kiddie pools, interactive water-play areas and water slides.

The unharmed swimming complex at Christopher Morley Park in Roslyn-North Hills has an Olympic-sized pool, diving tank with boards, and a kiddie pool.

Nickerson Beach Park has two small pools as well as kiddie pools.

All of the pools are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

The pools at Cantiague, Christopher Morley, North Woodmere and Wantagh Parks also offer swimming lessons for adults and children. Admission is available on a daily basis at all pools or on a seasonal basis, with fees ranging by age and status as a Leisure Pass holder, which is only available to Nassau County residents.

For more information about the Nassau County Parks Department, visit www.nassaucountyny.gov/parks or call 516-572-0200.