Compiled by The Bedford Citizen
The Bedford Recreation Department has published a separate brochure for Springs Brook Park and its activities this summer.
In advance of delivery to homes, the brochure is available online by clicking here.
Online sign-up for memberships and swim program registration begins at 9 pm on Sunday, April 24
The brochure is full of useful information including 2016 rates, special events and weekly programs, an FAQ that addresses water quality issues, amenities – both new and ongoing, and opportunities for summer employment.
Springs Brook Park will be open for the season from Monday, June 6 through mid-August, with daily hours from 10:30 am until 7 pm.
Resident and Out-of-Town Membership Fees for 2016
As previously noted, the park will be open only to Bedford residents, their guests and members this year. Season memberships for Bedford individuals will be $85 for individuals and $225 for families; rates for members who reside outside Bedford will be $110 for an individual and $275 for a family.
Family membership includes a primary member, his/her spouse and children 22 and under. There is an additional fee for extended family members or children visiting with Bedford day care providers.
As in prior years, Bedford residents over age 65 are welcome without a fee, but must either be registered with the Recreation Department or show an ID with their date of birth and address. Students at Bedford’s Middle School or High School are eligible for $25 student memberships.
Bedford residents may also purchase a $7 per person daily admission (cash only, with ID) for admission on Monday through Friday, with a family maximum of $25. The park will be closed on Saturday and Sunday. The Recreation Commission notes that daily memberships are limited to Bedford residents; there is no charge for infants under age 1 or Bedford senior citizens.
Bedford residents and members may bring guests; the guest fee is $7/person (no maximum guest fee) as long as they are accompanied by a host resident or member.
Special Events and Weekly Programs
In addition to additional amenities for the park (think kayaks and paddleboards as well as new shade structures), an expanded series of special events has been planned for Summer 2016.
They will include performers Jackson Gillman: The Stand-Up Chameleon ; Silly Willy; the Ooch Experience; Animal Adventures; Circus of Imagination; and the Kendama Show and Workshop with Brett Outchcunis
Weekly programs will include Bingo on Mondays at 3 pm; a Lifeguard Challenge on Wednesdays at 2:45 pm; a special Springs Brook Park Arts and Crafts session on Thursdays at 3 pm; a Teddy Bear Picnic at 11:30 am on Fridays; and Life in the Lifeguard Chair, Fridays at 2:30 pm.
There will be special events as well: A Visit by the Lowell Spinners Mascot; Set Sail! the 1st Annual Regatta; Art in the Park; and Ahoy Ye Matey, It’s Pirate Day! with prizes for best costumes.
And there will be swim lessons– from Parent & Tot, through Red Cross Level 6.
Water Quality at Springs Brook Park – An FAQ
- What is used to treat the water? The water in the pond is treated with liquid chlorine (sodium hypochlorite).
- What is the capacity of the chlorine tank and how often is it replenished? The tank holds approximately 500 gallons of chlorine. The supply is kept uninterrupted, with deliveries as needed and typically more than once per week.
- How is chlorine flow determined? Chlorine flow (stroke and speed) to the pond is set to the level required to maintain a constant reading of free chlorine between 1.5 ppm and 3 ppm.
- How often are chlorine levels measured and adjusted? Chlorine, pH and alkalinity levels are tested prior to opening each day and then at least once again during the day (more often when conditions are extreme). Records of the readings are maintained.
- What determines rate of chlorine use? Many factors determine the rate of use, including sunlight, heat and bather load among others.
- Laboratory Testing Water samples from four locations in the pond are taken weekly and analyzed at a private laboratory. Lab results are sent directly to the Bedford Board of Health.
- Is the water filtered? The pond water is continuously filtered 24/7 throughout the season of operation. The filter is backwashed as needed, but at least twice per day.
Amenities – New and Ongoing
Several new amenities are being introduced this year: Stand-up paddle boards and kayak; a Gaga Pit; toddler playground; theme days with weekly planned activities; shade structures; and shallow pond spray features.
In addition to Red Cross swimming lessons, ongoing park amenities include a wooded/shaded picnic grove with tables and grills; concession stand; spray park; elementary playground; sand volleyball court; half court basketball court; wall ball; entertainment; full restrooms; miniature golf; tether ball; sand beach (bring beach toys!); zero depth entry; water slide; andoutdoor rinsing showers.
Summer Employment Opportunities
LIFEGUARDS AND SWIM INSTRUCTORS (Minimum Age 16 by 6/6/16) Must have current Lifeguard Training, CPR and/or Water Safety Instructors Certification. Hourly rates start at $9.44 and are based on experience. Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.
CREW POSITIONS (Open to Bedford Residents Only) Interviews will be held in mid-May. Application deadline is May 1. May apply for more than one position. Positions have flexible schedules and hours.
- Park Attendants: (Min. age 14 by 6/6/16) Attendants greet park guests and assist with daily ongoing mainte-nance needs.
- Swim Aides: (Min. age 14 by 6/6/16) Aides do not teach swimming, but assist with instruction and class safety. Must enjoy swimming and working with children.
- Grounds Maintenance: (Min. age 14 by 6/6/16) Responsible for landscaping, grounds, facility mainte-nance.
- Park Amenities & Activities: (Min. age 14 by 6/6/16) Assist with waterslide, spray park, mini golf, kayak, paddleboard and special events.
- Concession Staff: (Min. age 15 by 6/6/16) Prepare food, serve customers, maintain concession stand and grounds.
To apply, pick up an applications at the Recreation Office at Town Center or visit www.bedfordrecreation.org
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