Columbus pool at risk of closing after 59 years

COLUMBUS, Ohio ( WCMH ) — A community pool that has been open in Columbus for 59 years is on the brink of closing for good.

Northland Swim Club is beloved by its members, who are now fighting to keep it open for next summer. Members said it’s more than a pool; it’s a family.

Generations of children learned to swim there, school and club teams raced in the lanes, and best friends were made in the water. It’s been a huge part of Lori Edsinger’s life for decades.

“It’s 40 years of friendships, lifelong friendships and I love the fact that our kids and now grandkids can be here and enjoy it,” Edsinger said.

Pool manager Missi Conley said she has been a part of the pool, either as a member or an employee, for 50 years now.

“I could cry right now,” Conley said. “It’s my life. I’ve been here since I was two. My dad worked here, my brothers poured the concrete. It’s my life.”

Swim teams and organizations around central Ohio have used the pool for practice, team-building activities and swim lessons.

Northland Swim Club was a big part of many people’s childhoods over the past 59 summers, but this year’s kids may be the last bunch to enjoy it because the pool will permanently close after Labor Day unless they can raise $50,000 by Oct. 31.

“We have members that are pledging money but we don’t want to take their money until we know we can open,” Conley said. “That’s why we’re not selling memberships for next year.”

People are devastated that they may only have a final few days left to swim, dive, watch the children play and soak in the sun at the Northland Swim Club.

“I’m already losing sleep over it, seriously,” Edsinger said. “It’s so depressing because it’s such a part of our life.”

“A lot of people care and a lot of people work,” Conley said. “We all grew up here so we all work hard for it.”

Everyone involved is working hard but there is a strong chance the gates will be locked up for good.

So, Northland Swim Club board members, managers and pool members are asking for the community’s help to save the pool before it’s too late.

“You just have to get out and come in and enjoy the experience one or two times and you’ll know what we’re talking about,” said Northland Swim Club board member Marty Marinelli. I’ve been to a lot of pools and this place is nothing like any other pool.”

The pool is accepting pledges on their website at now through October 31st, with a goal of $50,000. Donors will only have to pay if the pool raises enough to stay open in 2025.

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