Rio de Janeiro has opened a swimming pool that will serve 10 underprivileged neighborhoods in the city. Admission to the open-air pool is free of charge and is available to an estimated 1.5 million people. It can accommodate up to 3,000 people.
The pool is part of the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games organizers’ “pre-legacy” program, which pledges to create a positive impact on the city before and after the games.
The pool is open until March 1 and will then be closed in preparation for the August 5th launch of the 2016 Olympic Games. During the games competitors will use the area to get into their canoes before entering the course, and will return after the whitewater rapids competition.
“We are delivering this as an advance legacy for one of the poorest areas of Rio de Janeiro, so they can enjoy it during the summer, Rio Mayor Eduardo Paes said in a press release.
When the pool reopens after the games local residents will also be able to use the adjoining large recreational park featuring nature trails, bike tracks, and a barbecue area.
