Vandergrift Pool to open this season with new manager

The popular Vandergrift Pool in Allegheny Township will open this season with new leadership.

Michelle Terry of Vandergrift has taken over from longtime pool manager Daisha Clayton, who stepped down after being appointed to Vandergrift Council in December.

Clayton described Terry as a “great fit” for the pool.

“I’ve spent some time with her, and she’s eager to learn and take on the responsibilities of manager,” Clayton said. “She’ll bring a fresh perspective and a new set of eyes. I can rest easy knowing the Vandergrift Pool is in good hands. I’m excited to pass her the torch.”

Terry works for Kiski Area School District as a food service employee. The pool manager position is seasonal. Clayton’s niece, Kai Clayton, is the assistant manager.

“I’m looking forward to the new adventure at Vandergrift Pool,” said Terry, a Penn Hills High School graduate who has lived in Vandergrift since 2008. “It’s a great place to bring the kids and meet up with the family and friends. I feel like we’re getting back to normalcy before covid.”

The pool is officially named the Joseph A. Petrarca Memorial Pool, but most call it simply the Vandergrift Pool (despite being in Allegheny Township at 1639 La Belle Vue Road). The grounds include a playground, snack bar and changing rooms/bathrooms.

The pool is scheduled to open Memorial Day weekend and close at Labor Day.

Terry said about 20 lifeguards are on staff, most of them returning from last season.

The pool, owned by the borough, operates under its own budget and is financially stable, according to Vandergrift officials.

A season membership costs $140 for one person, $250 for a couple and $320 for a family of three. Each additional family member costs $55.

Daily gate admission rates are $7 each and $4 after 5 p.m. Admission remains free for children 2 and younger.

After-hours private party bookings are $300 and are available from 8 to 10 p.m. Pavilion three-hour rental prices are $75 on weekdays and $100 on weekends.

Pool memberships can be purchased in-person at the borough office at 109 Grant Ave. or over the phone (724-567-7818) using a credit card. Daily hours of operation are noon to 7 p.m.

A new pool liner was installed last year, paid for by a $165,000 state grant from the state Commonwealth Financing Authority that was secured by the former state representative for the area, Joe Petrarca Jr. The pool is named after Petrarca’s late father, who also was a state legislator.

A pool community cleanup day is scheduled from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 7, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, May 15.

“We hope that people will come out to help us,” Terry said.