Due to the Governor’s recommendations that were to be in place until July 15, the decision to close the pool was determined by State regulations and the limit of staff. A majority of the certified lifeguards that have staffed Big Blue Bay, has moved on after graduation or found other employment. After Governor Ricketts released the restrictions, City staff and Council worked over the weekend with hopes to open the pool. After reviewing guidelines offered by the State of Nebraska, the American Red Cross, staffing issues, and evaluating operations, we are unable to open Big Blue Bay for the 2020 swimming season.
Red Cross training guidelines stipulate “when social distancing requirements are in place based on state and local orders, only training which allows for this distance and without contact between students and inductors can be conducted.” Not only is there not enough lifeguards to safely open the pool, we do not have the ability to refresh skills and train new lifeguard applicants to meet safety standards.
If you have questions, please contact the City of Alliance at (308) 762-5400 for more information.