Indoor public pool at Hyde Park BCYF

The idea

Convert the aging, frequently clogged outdoor sprinkler area at the BCYF HP Community Center into an indoor public pool. Hyde Park is the only Boston neighborhood without an indoor pool, leaving residents without affordable, year round access.

Who it helps and why

This project enhances social and racial equity by expanding access to an essential recreational and wellness resource in a community that has long been underserved. Hyde Park is the only neighborhood in Boston without an indoor BCYF public pool, creating an inequity compared to other Boston neighborhoods. While there is a YMCA located nearby, its membership fees of more than $50 per month for individuals, and even higher for families, make it unaffordable for many residents. As a result, year round access to swimming, water safety instruction, water fitness and recreational programs is out of reach for many low and moderate income families. Hyde Park already has two outdoor spray decks, but these are seasonal and do not meet the community's need for year round aquatic programming. A free or low cost BCYF indoor pool would provide equitable access to fitness, swim lessons, water safety education, and recreational opportunities for residents of all ages, regardless of income. By removing financial barriers and addressing a longstanding gap in public facilities, this project would help ensure Hyde Park residents have the same opportunities available to people in other Boston neighborhoods. There is ample space to accommodate an indoor pool, as the adjacent pocket park is rarely used for recreation or community activities. Repurposing this underutilized area would provide a valuable, year round resource that better serves Hyde Park and surrounding residents.