Public pools open in one metro Atlanta city with new COVID-19 guidelines

TUCKER, Ga. — Public pools in one DeKalb County city reopened today.

Tucker city officials told Channel 2′s Audrey Washington that they’ll take extra precautions to hinder the spread of the coronavirus.

It's not easy to social distance in a pool, but city officials said they restricted the number of people allowed in the water and limited other common areas.

To hinder the spread of the virus, Tucker city officials said swimmers will have to register for a two-and-a-half hour time period each day. They said deck chairs will be spaced out at least six feet apart and all common touch areas and bathrooms will be sanitized throughout the day.

Caitlyn Murphy knew exactly what she wanted to do to kick off Memorial Day weekend -- hit the pool.

“I'm really excited that it’s back open," Murphy said. "It's really convenient, safe and fun."

Murphy wasn't alone. A number of people were splashing around in Tucker's public pools Saturday.

"It's very nice to be back," swimmer Anna Chaddad said.

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But not everyone is in a rush to frequent public spaces during the pandemic. According to DeKalb County health officials, there were 279 reported COVID-19 cases as of May 18th in just the Tucker area alone.

Officials said the city has the largest number of coronavirus cases reported in the county.

Washington asked some of the swimmers if they were concerned.

“I figured I could keep my social distance and be safe while I do some exercise," Donald Cirino said.

Chaddad agreed.

“I’ve been here before so I know that they’re very responsible," she said.

“I’m not really worried about any of that and germs," Murphy said. "I feel like they do a good job in cleaning everything here.”

Not every city in DeKalb County is reopening its pools. The mayor of Decatur said he doesn’t feel comfortable bringing groups together, so he will keep the public pools closed for now.

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