the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Palisades Park NJ, residents expecting to enjoy the Palisades Park Swim Club during Memorial Day weekend were left disappointed, not because of rainy skies but due to critical infrastructure repairs. Despite initial public messaging that cited bad weather, it was later revealed that meter and valve issues prevented the pool from opening.
Why the Pool Didn’t Open Memorial Day Weekend
Although the borough’s website and the swim club’s Facebook page posted on May 21 that the closure was due to chilly and rainy weather, the real reason was more technical. According to Veolia Water spokesperson Debra Vial, officials were informed last fall — both verbally and in writing — that repairs were needed on the pool’s water meter system to safely open for the 2025 summer season.
The meter, located five feet underground, had long been a safety concern. At the May 27 public council meeting, Borough Business Administrator Roberta Stern explained that Veolia had been requesting a meter relocation for 10 years. Costly repair estimates and a broken pipe delayed the project even further.
Water Meter Issues Led to a Missed Deadline
Even though repairs began in late February, problems continued. The wrong flanges were initially used, and when the water was turned on Friday of Memorial Day weekend, one of the flanges failed, causing a leak. The situation required urgent attention from a plumber, and water had to be shut off for welding repairs.
“There was no water last weekend to open, and the township knew that in advance,” Vial confirmed.
Veolia eventually restored water on Wednesday, May 28, and is currently working with the borough to ensure temporary functionality for this season. However, the proper parts needed to complete the job will not arrive until later this summer, meaning more work will take place after the season ends.
Ongoing Repairs and No New Opening Date Yet
As of May 31, the pool remained closed and empty, with workers seen cleaning, power-washing, and installing a new filter system. The borough’s website now states:
“We are working diligently to complete this upgrade to ensure better water quality and a safer swimming experience for everyone. We truly appreciate your patience and understanding during this necessary improvement.”
Still, no rescheduled opening date has been provided.
Borough Responds to Backlash and Plans Ahead
The borough’s public relations firm, Visions Media, initially cited bad weather as the reason for the delay — a statement contradicted by internal updates and public meeting records.
At the council meeting, Mayor Chong “Paul” Kim addressed the frustration:
“We’re trying our best, but that was unexpected,” he said. He also vowed to start preparations earlier next year and to avoid repeating the same mistakes.
Stern added, “I counted on someone, and they just disappointed me.”
What’s Next for the Palisades Park Swim Club?
While the essential systems are now operational, full resolution of the meter issue won’t occur until after the 2025 season, once the correct equipment arrives. In the meantime, residents will need to stay tuned to the borough’s website and pool’s Facebook page for updates.\
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