Berkeley’s public swimming pools may reopen as soon as Sept. 14
Berkeley allowed pools to reopen on Aug. 28 but it is taking time for the city to hire new staff and work out safety plans.
In brief
Berkeley Parks and Recreation
Top Stories
Berkeley issues ‘all-clear’ — for now — at Aquatic Park
Bacteria levels in the water at Aquatic Park have been within normal limits for the past two weeks, prompting city staff to tell the community Friday evening that it’s all right to go back in the water.Â
Bacteria levels continue to rise at Aquatic Park; water still off-limits
The city is stepping up efforts to determine why dangerous bacteria that may cause illness have been proliferating in Aquatic Park since early August, making the park off-limits for recreation in recent weeks.
Recent stories
City says to ‘avoid the water at Aquatic Park entirely’ after latest test results
The water in West Berkeley’s Aquatic Park is currently unsafe for any human contact, the city said Friday evening, following substantial increases in bacteria there, lab tests show.
Aquatic Park water quality test results delayed; warning signs remain posted
Warning notices around West Berkeley’s Aquatic Park lagoon will remain in place through the weekend, the city told Berkeleyside late Friday afternoon.
E. coli spike at Aquatic Park: City warns against contact with water
A huge increase in E. coli bacteria at the north end of Aquatic Park has caused the city to urge community members to minimize activities that require contact with the water. Warning signs are being posted.
King Park tot lot, badly damaged by felled eucalyptus, won’t reopen until 2020
Getting the Northbrae playground back up and running is complicated by several factors: insurance, code and the fact that the park is not city property.
After community campaign, Berkeley to open its first pickleball courts
Four brand new courts will be unveiled Saturday for the “ping-pong, tennis volleyball mash-up” that is often described as the fastest-growing game in America.
New picnic area, upgraded amphitheater anticipated for John Hinkel Park
The scope of renovations at the North Berkeley park depend on finding a developer who can work within the city’s budget.
After 24 years keeping city accountable, Berkeley auditor Ann-Marie Hogan to retire
Highly regarded by her peers, Hogan has done hundreds of audits, all aimed at making Berkeley city government function better. Her plans now include picking up jazz singing again.
Philip Harper-Cotton retires after 49 years in the recreation department
Phil Harper-Cotton grew up playing ball in Berkeley parks and has dedicated his life to creating programs for the residents of Berkeley. He retires Friday.
Plans for artificial turf at woodsy John Hinkel Park spark debate
The North Berkeley park has a natural feel. Some neighbors fear that will be impacted if Berkeley installs a patch of artificial grass for a swing set.
