Madison Reporter

The Goodman Pool will close for the 2025 season after Sunday, August 24, according to city officials. The closure is attributed to staffing limitations as most lifeguards are students who will be returning to school. City staff emphasized that safety remains the top priority and the pool cannot operate without sufficient staff.

"This planned closure is based on staffing availability, as most of our lifeguards are students returning to school. Safety is our top priority and without adequate staffing, we cannot remain open beyond this date," a statement from city officials said.

In July, the Board of Park Commissioners approved a new policy requiring youth between ages 11 and 15 visiting Goodman Pool to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Since implementing this rule, efforts have been made to develop an alternative process allowing youth in this age group to visit independently. Under current rules, children aged 10 or younger must be accompanied by a guardian who is at least 16 years old.

"The Youth Attendance Waiver allows visitors aged 11 to 15 years old to attend Goodman Pool without their parent or guardian present, once completed by a parent or legal guardian and verified in person by Pool staff. To learn more and how to apply, see Youth Attendance Policy. Although only a few open days remain this season, we're using this time as a soft launch and will continue refining the process in preparation for the 2026 season," officials stated.

Other aquatic facilities in Madison remain available; all splash parks—including the recently opened Jeff Erlanger Sprayground at Rennebohm Park—will stay open daily through Monday, September 1.

Goodman Pool hours may change due to weather conditions or low attendance. The pool could close if the air temperature falls below 69 degrees at opening or if attendance is insufficient. More information about closures can be found in the Closing Policy.