The non-profit Evergreen Pool, which serves the greater Highline area, which had been threatened with closure, will remain open thanks to a combination of community and government support.

During December the volunteer community group that manages the pool successfully raised over $15,000 from the public, obtained a grant for reducing energy costs from King County Parks, and entered into a contract with the City of Burien to provide services to low-income residents there.

“We are so grateful to the community and our leaders who recognize the need for an aquatic facility in White Center and for coming together to help us continue our mission of teaching swimming and promoting fitness in the Highline area,” said Evergreen Community Aquatics Center Board President, Bryan Hastings.

“In particular we would like to thank King County Executive Dow Constantine and Burien’s newly elected Mayor Lucy Krakowiak for sharing our vision,” said Hastings. In addition there were many private donors, mostly giving less than $100, who helped reach the fundraising goal.

More than 3,800 children – and adults – have learned to swim at the Evergreen Pool since it reopened under new management three years ago. The pool is home to several swim teams – Whitewater Aquatics, Highline High School, Evergreen High School and Blue Wave Masters, as well as dozens of community groups.

To celebrate the continued operation of the pool, a free family swim pass is being offered with each lesson program sign up. More information can be found at www.EvergreenPool.org.