Naperville's Centennial Beach Preparing for 2015 Summer Season

Those walking along the Riverwalk the week of April 20-26 can catch a rare glimpse of the limestone walls and concrete floor of Centennial Beach - drained, scrubbed and ready to be filled with fresh water for the 2015 summer season.

In addition to completing routine Beach maintenance tasks, the Park District recently installed a new stairway for swimmers between the lap lanes and the diving area. The new concrete staircase will provide easier swimming access into the channel and deep-water area.

Beach staff training will begin in late April in preparation for opening on Memorial Day weekend.

Centennial Beach offers both daily passes and season memberships for residents and nonresidents. Early bird rates are in effect now through May 22, offering up to 20% off regular membership fees. Naperville residents as well as nonresidents receive the early bird discount. New this year, Twilight memberships are available for those who plan to visit the Beach on weekday evenings after 5:00 p.m. as well as on weekends. Additionally, members may purchase a Friends and Family Pass for out-of-town summer visitors, including grandparents, nannies, friends and family. Information about rates and registration can be found at www.centennialbeach.org.

Once again the Beach will extend its hours to include times for "Weekend Adult Float" and "Special Needs Nights." Adults can float on inner tubes on most Saturday and Sunday mornings and on the evenings of June 21 and July 19. Families with individuals who have special needs may enjoy a quiet, relaxing evening after regular hours on Sundays, June 7 and 28, and July 5 and 26.

New in 2015, young swimmers who pass the deep water test will be given an identification bracelet, allowing them to swim in the deep end and use the diving boards after taking and passing the test once for the season.