Yakima’s Franklin Pool Reopens with Community Support and City Funding

Yakima’s Lions Pool opened in April and Friday is opening day of Franklin Pool. The Yakima City Council voted earlier this year to use reserve funding to pay for a fix at Franklin pool and operate both pools this summer.

THE CITY FUNDED A FIX AT FRANKLIN

The council voted 7-0 to use $230,000 from the city reserve fund to cover necessary repairs at Franklin Pool and to fund operations for both Lions and Franklin pools during the upcoming summer months. The city funding was coupled with public donations, which have played a a big role in ensuring the pools’ reopening.

READ MORE: POWER OUTAGES EXPECTED THIS WILDFIRE SEASON

DID YOU DONATE?

The fundraising campaign was led by lawmakers from eastern and central Washington, aiming to restore the pools after their closure was proposed as part of the budget cuts for 2026. Mayor Matt Brown says the council was inclined to support the initiative because of widespread community backing. Both pools, which had been closed due to financial constraints, are a long-standing summer tradition for Yakima families seeking recreation and relief from the upcoming summer heat. In response, lawmakers launched a public-private partnership and a fundraising effort to make the reopening possible.

LANCE TORMEY/POOL

YAKIMA SIMPLY WANTED POOLS OPEN

City officials say the successful partnership highlights the community’s dedication to maintaining important pools despite ongoing budget challenges. They say the pools’ reopening is seen as a victory for residents and proof of the power of community support and local leadership.

YOU HAVE OPTIONS FOR YOUR SUMMER SWIMMING

A city press release says for the 2026 season, Franklin Pool will operate Monday through Friday from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm.
The City of Yakima’s two other public pools, Lions Pool and the Aquatic Center and MLK, Jr. Park, are also open and operating normal hours.