Ontarios pool shortage: Why communities are struggling to keep up with demand [Video]

The demand for access to public pools in Ontario is on the rise.

Families, athletes, children and individuals are struggling to find recreational pools as long waitlists, overcrowded facilities and scarce pool availability have become more common in recent years.

The Aquatic Sport Council of Ontario (ASC) is advocating for more action to be taken, saying Ontario doesn’t have enough pools to meet the growing population.

A new report from ASC highlights the urgent need for investment in more aquatic facilities, specifically larger 50-metre pools, which can accommodate more programs and public use.

“Ontario just doesn’t have enough pools to meet the current demand,” said Brian Meiss, CEO of the lifesaving Society of Ontario. “We need more facilities that can handle swim lessons, public swims and aquafit classes.” he adds.

Ontario has 14 million residents but only 30 percent of Canada’s 50-metre indoor pools. The report done by ASC observed that there is only one large pool for every …