A New Chapter Begins at Rising Eddy Community Pool
On Monday, July 7, community members, supporters, elected officials, donors, and families gathered at Dougherty Field to celebrate the official ribbon cutting and grand opening of the Rising Eddy Community Pool. The celebration marked the completion of a transformational community project more than seven years in the making and a major investment in Portland's parks and public spaces.
Replacing the former Kiwanis Pool, the new Rising Eddy Community Pool is a modern, accessible aquatic facility featuring enhanced locker rooms, accessible entry for swimmers of all abilities, dedicated lap and water-walking lanes, two waterslides, a coastal Maine-themed splash pad, and space to accommodate up to 400 swimmers. Chosen through the City's first community-driven naming process for a public asset, the name honors the resilience and renewal of both Portland and the Libbytown neighborhood while reflecting the pool's purpose as a welcoming place where people can gather, cool off, and build community.
The ceremony began with remarks from Ethan Hipple, Director of Portland's Parks, Recreation and Facilities Department, who reflected on the seven-year journey to bring the project to life. He recognized the many City staff, partners, and community members whose dedication made the new pool possible. Rachel and Justin Alfond, co-chairs of the project, followed by speaking about the power of community partnerships and the importance of creating a space that truly belongs to everyone.
District 5 City Councilor Regina Phillips shared heartfelt memories of spending summers at the original pool with her sisters, describing it as a place that felt like summer camp and expressing her excitement that future generations of Portland families will now create memories of their own. Mayor Mark Dion concluded the ceremony by highlighting the pool as an investment in community, accessibility, and public spaces that bring people together.
The Portland Parks Conservancy was proud to help make this vision a reality by partnering with the City during the capital campaign. Thanks to the generosity of more than 150 donors, the Conservancy helped fund enhancements that will benefit Portland families for years to come, including the addition of a second waterslide and expanded shade features.
Following the remarks, the ribbon was officially cut, marking the opening of Portland's newest community pool. Families wasted no time jumping into the water, children raced for the waterslides, and neighbors came together to celebrate the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Dougherty Field. Rising Eddy Community Pool is more than a place to swim, it's a lasting investment in Portland's future, where generations of residents will gather, play, and create memories for years to come.
Take a look at some highlights from the grand opening below!
