School starts Monday.

Today is the last day for the Monticello Swimming Pool and Splash Pad to be open.

The pool is open today from 1-8 pm, and admission to the pool is only $1.  Admission to the splash pad has is free.

Saturday, eight Monticello residents went on a road trip to Paragould to tour their civic center and pool facility.

The photos shown in this series show a “splash park” that is located away from the primary civic center and pool area.

Spash equipment, water toys, and sprayers of all types were built into the play area.

Nearby benches, as well as a pavilion, were closely located, so that parent could keep a convenient watch over their children.

The primary pool area  included two water slides, umbrellas, and all types of spray and play equipment.

We couldn’t help but notice the long lines of swimmers waiting to enter the facility, which opened at 1 p.m.

Lifeguards are on duty, but children must be attended by adults.

Overhead views show the approximately 600 swimmers enjoying the pool area around 2-3 p.m.

The pool is open to the public during the day, and available to be rented for parties every night, except Sunday, when maintenance occurs.

The indoor pool has a pleasant appearance from the outside, as well as from inside the pool area.

The theraputic pool has a “handicapped access” as well as steps.

Pat Austin, facility director, shown here in orange, led the tour, which included MEDC Director Truman Hamilton, Alderman Tim Chase, Keith Caldwell (Marlins parent), Julie Gentry (UAM intramurals director), Terry Hopper (Marlins parent), and Mayor Joe Rogers.  Also taking the trip were Patty Wooten for the Advance, and Joe Burgess, for MonticelloLive.com (neither pictured).

The enclused area has the roof opened for air-flow, which closes automatically in the event of inclimate weather.

Located next to the pavilion at the splash park, is a skate park.

Ms. Pat said the this area draws heavy youth traffic, as well.  She pointed out the instead of saying “Here’s what you’re getting”, the skaters were able to take part in the planning, and helped design the ramps and fixtures.

Several skaters arrived while we were there, and put on a good “presentation” for us, using the different ramps other features that are built into the park.