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July 15, 2026
Contact: Kerry Francis, Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, 614-908-5834
Columbus Recreation and Parks Department's Community Centers to Help Neighborhoods Beat the Heat
COLUMBUS – Due to the extreme heat, Columbus Recreation and Parks Department will open cooling centers at five regional community centers to give residents a place to cool off. The following centers will be open from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. on Thursday, July 16, and Friday, July 17:
- Dodge Community Center, 667 Sullivant Ave., 43215
- Driving Park Community Center, 1100 Rhoads Ave., 43206
- Glenwood Community Center, 1888 Fairmont Ave., 43223
- Linden Community Center, 1350 Briarwood Ave., 43211
- Marion Franklin Community Center, 2801 Lockbourne Road, 43207
All Columbus Recreation and Parks community centers will continue to provide scheduled activities such as summer camp during regular hours. Residents can come in and cool off while the centers are open. For a complete list of centers and operating hours, visit ColumbusRecParks.com/CommunityCenters.
Pools, Spraygrounds Open
Pools and spraygrounds will be open for extended hours.
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Pools: All outdoor pools will be open from 1-8 p.m., and admission will be waived on Thursday, July 16, and Friday, July 17. Check the status of your local pool before going.
- Capacity limits may be enforced, and everyone is asked to follow all rules and staff instructions to ensure the safety of residents and staff. A free Leisure Card is still needed for admission, and proper swim attire is required.
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Spraygrounds: Spraygrounds will be open from 12-8 p.m. on Thursday, July 16, and Friday, July 17. All spraygrounds continue to be free. Check the status of your local sprayground.
Check the department's website and social media channels for up-to-date information.
Stay Safe in the Heat
Seniors who are in need of fans should contact LifeCare Alliance at 614-278-3130.
Columbus Public Health reminds residents of ways to stay healthy and safe in hot weather:
- Drink plenty of water. Do not wait until you are thirsty.
- Stay in air conditioning whenever possible. If you do not have an air conditioner, use movie theatres, malls, libraries and other public places that are cool.
- Avoid beverages with alcohol, caffeine and sugar because they will dehydrate you.
- Eat light meals.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Avoid strenuous activities, and limit them to morning and evening hours.
- Learn the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to treat them.
- Check on family members, friends and neighbors.
- Never leave people or pets in a closed car.
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