BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Though spray parks in Bakersfield and Kern County opened last week, it may be a bit longer before residents can enjoy swimming in pools.

Kern County Public Health gave permission for public pools to reopen, along with the spray parks, but it takes more time to get those operating under the county's new guidelines.

Joe Conroy, a spokesman for the city of Bakersfield, explained: "Unlike the spray parks, many of which re-opened last week, public pools require hiring staff and training them, as well as developing protocols for staff and those who use the facilities. Recreation & Parks started working to implement the guidelines for pools as soon as we received them. Staff is working hard and as quickly as possible to meet the requirements for public pool operations in the midst of the pandemic and to train staff accordingly."

The Recreation & Parks Department hopes to have the pools ready to reopen by mid-July. However, the city does not have a specific timeframe in place.

"The City and the Recreation & Parks Department understand the public’s desire to use these great amenities and staff is working hard to have them ready to re-open safely," said Conroy.

He also said that pool services will be implemented in stages and that some features, like slides, have not been permitted under the Kern County Public Health guidelines.