Splish Splash

The Town of Payson Parks and Recreation Department operates a fantastic aquatics program. This program is geared towards individuals of all ages. Despite the fact that swimming is a summer activity, one which is often thought of as something just to occupy the school kids during summer break, it is also an excellent exercise to be enjoyed throughout one’s lifetime. The Town of Payson operates their aquatic program at Taylor Pool. Here, there is something for everyone.


Swimming programs offered through the Payson Parks and Recreation Department includes a variety of programs. One can swim laps, participate in water aerobics, take swim lessons, compete on the swim team, and enjoy a day of public swim. Each program is offered at different hours throughout the day. The pool schedule is as follows:

 Open Swim: Mon. thru Sat. 1:00 PM - 5:00PM
 Swim Team: 6:30AM–8:30AM
 Water Aerobics: 8:30AM & 5:30PM
 Swim Lessons: M-Th 9:30AM–Noon
 Tues & Thu 5:20PM–6:30PM
 Lap Swimming: 6:30AM–9:30AM & 5PM–6:30PM
 Family Time: Saturday 1-5:00 $6 admission
 CLOSED SUNDAYS

The aquatics program within the Payson Parks and Recreation Department is a program that does not support itself financially. The expense to employ certified lifeguards, water safety instructors, and to maintain the swimming facility overshadows the revenue generated by the public. It is a mere $3.00 (per person) admission fee to swim during open swim. Swimming lessons consist of 8 lessons at a cost of $25.00. Lessons are available to swimmers of all ages from infants (Parent/Tot – beginning at age 6 months) up to Senior Citizens (water aerobics). Members of the Payson Pikes Swim Team (ages 7 years and up) swim at a recreational level, participating in daily practices and compete in meet competitions taking place on Saturdays throughout the summer. The cost to join the swim team is $50.00 per child with some scholarships available.

My responsibilities within the aquatics program are limited because I am not a certified lifeguard nor and I a water safety instructor. I have performed general maintenance at the pool (vacuuming and cleaning) as well as assisting in the admission booth. The organization and running of a public swim pool requires staff and employees that are trained specifically for the job. Being a support staff member, my duties and responsibilities are limited but I have gained the knowledge and experience needed to successfully operate and maintain an aquatic facility. This one summer activity is necessary for all communities, even though it is difficult for a public pool to be financially funded.

Check out the Taylor Pool website:

http://www2.paysonrimcountry.com/Activities/ParksRec/Aquatics/tabid/368/Default.aspx