Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, June 2025

Shippensburg Community Parks and Recreation Authority (SCPRA) announces the demolition of existing Memorial Park Pool site; including the full removal of the pool, kiddie pool, and bathhouse.

In June of 2024, SCPRA, in partnership with the Friends of Memorial Park Pool (FMPP), a local non-profit, launched the Memorial Park Pool Site Revitalization Study. The study explored various options for transforming the Memorial Park Pool location into a space that would meet the needs of the community. It evaluated both aquatic and non-aquatic amenities as potential upgrades in response to the deterioration of existing structures.

The revitalization and reimagining of the Memorial Park Pool site has always been a top priority, with a goal of providing residents a better alternative and a useful park feature.

Demolishing the site will eliminate aging infrastructure, reduce ongoing maintenance burdens, and open the area for future community-focused use of green space.

“The demolition is a bittersweet step forward” said SCPRA Director Josh Mitchell. “Generations of Shippensburg residents made lasting memories at this pool. While it is sad to see it go, it is also a moment to celebrate its legacy and prepare for what’s next.”

The swimming pool in Shippensburg operated since the 1950’s, and its last year open was in 2019—serving community members for nearly 70 years. Memorial Park Pool, as we knew it, served this community well and outlived the typical life expectancy of a public pool. SCPRA Director Josh Mitchell added, “This moment invites reflection on a rich history. Memorial Park is a special place, and remembering time spent at the pool over many decades makes it clear how important it is to plan carefully for how this space can continue to be used by future generations.”

On June 3, 2025, the Shippensburg Borough Council formally approved the site’s demolition, with all associated cost to be fully funded by FMPP through a grant generously provided by the Franklin County Commissioners. This is a necessary first step that will help shape site development opportunities and sets the stage for a future, more long-term, investment.

Demolition is scheduled to begin in July—marking the end of one era and the beginning of new opportunities for Memorial Park.

The SCPRA Board will be scheduling a presentation of the study at an upcoming board meeting, where options for a sustainable path forward will be shared with the public. SCPRA remains committed to exploring viable recreation improvements and will continue working with regional stakeholders to identify partnerships, funding solutions, and appropriate planning measures.

For more information, please contact:
Josh Mitchell, Park and Rec Director
Shippensburg Community Parks and Recreation Authority
director@shippensburgparkandrec.org