Trefethen Aquatic Center FAQs
Q: Is the pool open to the public?
A: Yes, please see the site’s pool schedule page for our open hours. All public access times are listed as “Public …” . While you are perusing, please take a second to review the pool patron guide.
Q: Where do I park while I’m at the pool?
A: The large lot to the right of the gate house when you enter campus is currently free to park in. Street parking on Richards Road is not recommended, and the small Staff parking lot near the pool is off-limits at all times unless a handicap placard is visible.
Q: What’s the difference between Adult Lap Swim and Recreation Swim?
A: Adult Lap Swimming times are meant solely for adults 18 and older to do a swim workout or water walking workout. Recreation Swim times are meant for all, but are the time for kids and families to join us for enjoying the pool for play and swim. (Please see our guide for Toys and Recreation before joining us!)
Q: Do I need to sign up or reserve a spot for Water Fitness Classes? Are they accessible to the public?
A: Water Aerobics Classes are first come-first served and do not require a sign up reservation currently, as we can accommodate up to 30 people for this activity. Our Stand Up Paddle Board Yoga Classes DO require a sign up reservation, as due to the nature of the class only 6 boards can be used at a time in the current space allowed. (Reserve your spot here!) — In regards to the public access, classes that are accessible to the public will be listed during the public hours of operation, listed as “Public …” on our calendar. Other classes will be marked as “NU staff/students/faculty”.
Q: Are there lockers or storage spaces to put my things while I swim or take a class?
A: Most folx utilize the chairs behind each block to keep their things near them while swimming, but yes. There are outdoor lockers between the two locker rooms. You may bring your own lock, or you may rent a lock from us during your daily time with us. Inquire at the staff office!
Q: Is the pool heated?
A: Yes. The Trefethen Aquatic Center features a competition pool, heated year-round to 79-80 degrees, and the Therapy Spa is heated to 103-104 degrees.
Q: Is the pool salt water or fresh water?
A: This is a chlorinated facility and not using salt as a disinfectant.
Q: Is the facility accessible and ADA compliant?
A: Yes. The facility has access ramps, ADA stalls and shower(s), as well as chair lifts for both the pool and the therapy spa.
Q: How would we know if the pool was closed unexpectedly?
A: When we know about it, we will post a “POOL CLOSED MM/DD/YY” message at the top of both the landing page as well as the pool schedule page.
Q: Why can’t I just call to see if you’re open?
A: Many apologies, but there is no public phone number to call. The best way to find information is on this very site, under the landing page or the pool schedule page.
Q: Why are the hours subject to change?
A: The Trefethen Aquatic Center is located on a vibrant private college campus, and the hours will reflect what the student population needs are each semester/season.
Q: What happens when it’s rainy weather, or if the air quality is in question?
A: The Tefethen Aquatic Center policy states that staff must be able to see the bottom of the pool at all times. If the rain is so heavy or wind is so high that it prevents the guards from seeing the bottom of the pool, we will temporarily clear and/or close the pool until weather normalizes. Should there be thunder or lightning, the pool will clear and stay closed until 30 minutes has passed since the last bolt of lightning or rumble of thunder was seen/heard. The Trefethen Aquatic Center staff will be the ultimate authority as to when and if the facility is to be cleared or closed due to weather.
The staff also monitors the Air Quality through PurpleAir.com. We will remain open until the Air Quality reaches 150 (Unhealthy), and reopen when the sensors in our area remain at 120 or below for the average of an hour or more. The Trefethen Aquatic Center staff will be the ultimate authority as to when and if the facility is to be cleared or closed due to weather.
Q: Can I host a birthday party at the pool?
A: We regret that birthday parties are not something we can entertain, as non-student group activities in this facility require thorough vetting and a rental agreement.
Q: Can I buy a pool punchcard pass or daily admission fee online?
A: Not at this time. The facility accepts cash, credit cards, apple pay and checks at the Staff Office on site.
Q: Why can’t I find any current information on swim lessons?
A: The facility is not offering swim lessons currently, though we plan to in the future.
Q: I left something at the pool! Is it still there??
A: We do have a “lost and found” fixture outside between the two locker rooms, next to the swimsuit dryer. More than likely, it is there on the shelves! If you don’t see your item(s), please ask at the front office as higher value things will be placed there for safe keeping.