I am writing to respond to the recent letter to the editor from Sandy Weavers on the “High Cost of Swimming” and also to comment on the front-page article on trash at the Greenfield Pumping Station.
People seem to forget that public swimming areas have lifeguards. Lifeguards need to get paid to protect you and your children. Puffer’s Pond is free, because there are no lifeguards. You swim at your own risk.
We have experienced two drownings just in the month of July, one on the Deerfield River and one on the Connecticut River. Both were so called, “free swimming.”
I live in Greenfield and have a season pass to the Greenfield River Swimming and Recreation Area. I go there most days after work. Each time I am there, I say, “We are so lucky to have this beautiful, clean river and such a nice public park that is kept up so well.” Lifeguards, playground, picnic areas, first aid station, food at the concession building, bathrooms, changing rooms. Do people like Ms. Weavers and others ever think about how this is all funded?
Town swim areas are not state-funded! They are funded by your entrance fee. Ten dollars for the day for your whole family is very reasonable. The price we pay for a family season pass is $65. There are specials, like half price after 5 p.m. half-price Fridays and half price for seniors, always.
The lifeguards are friendly and helpful, and they protect you. The saves they have made are clearly posted at the door outside the first aid room. As of July 30, the lifeguards had saved 11 people. Thank you, lifeguards!
Also a big thanks to the Greenfield Recreation Department for making this all happen in our town of Greenfield.
As for people swimming “free” at the Pumping Station: Why do you come to a beautiful place, only to trash it? Please have some respect.
Lucy Fagella
Greenfield