Summer may be over, but a mainstay all-season indoor community pool and recreation center has been closed for repairs since December 2024. For almost two years, public forums have been an outlet for the community’s impatience to receive some sort of update or an ETA on the reopening of Metropolitan Pool at 261 Bedford.
Answers were given this September 8, at the Brooklyn Community Board 1 (Bk CB1) meeting New York City Department of Parks & Recreation (NYC Parks) revealed a timeline for repairs and reopening. They named Winter 2027 as their reopening goal. However, in the spring there will be a roof reconstruction, but they intend to keep the recreational center open during this.
The problem that led to the closing was the center’s dehumidification equipment wasn’t doing its job of removing ozone. According to NYC Parks presentation to Bk CB1: “Ozone is a naturally occurring gas that exists in the atmosphere with elevated levels at ground level and indoor buildings when outdoor temperatures increase and air quality is poor. Elevated ozone is a respiratory irritant that can cause coughing, throat irritation, chest pain and breathing difficulties upon extended exposure. Mechanical equipment filters fresh air and ventilates indoor air to maintain safe ozone levels in facilities. Failure of the dehumidification mechanical equipment at Met Recreation Center reduced this systems ability to adequately maintain safe air quality levels.”
In June 2025, new heat pump air conditioning units were installed in the lobby, exercise room and dance room to improve indoor air temperatures. However, this did not improve air quality enough to pass July 2025 re-testing. The testing agency refused to retest until larger improvements were completed. This resulted in the center remaining closed.
In addition to the replacement of the dehumidifier system, the pool filtration system is also to be replaced to ensure uninterrupted operation of the pool. Also, the sidewalk vault along Bedford Avenue will be reconstructed to address structural deficiencies identified by the Parks Engineer. These are pending contract award with an anticipated start this winter.
