This week’s brutal heat (highs near 96°, heat index up to 104°) sent everyone scrambling for the water. Unfortunately, a few creative individuals — and some stubborn construction gremlins — turned our local pools into a comedy of errors.
This is why we can’t have nice things. And why the hardworking pool staff across the region deserve combat pay.
Signal Bay Waterpark will be closed Wednesday, July 8, and Thursday, July 9, 2026, due to repairs in the activity pool, according to an announcement from the Manassas Park Community Center. The facility is scheduled to reopen Friday morning.
The 27,000-square-foot aquatic facility at 9300 Signal View Drive in Signal Hill Park features a zero-depth leisure pool, slides, water cannons, and a lazy river. It remains a popular summer destination for families in the area.
Prince William County Parks and Recreation reported that the new sprayground at Catharpin Recreational Park is now open following a ribbon cutting ceremony Monday morning attended by community members, Parks and Recreation staff, Director Seth Hendler-Voss, and Gainesville District Supervisor George Stewart.
The fenced sprayground, located next to the playground, features a fun sports theme with multiple sprayers and is free for everyone to enjoy this summer in Prince William County.
Prince William County is deeply immersed in commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, blending local Revolutionary War history with robust educational outreach, research, exhibits, and public installations that connect residents—especially young people—to the nation’s founding story.
On June 9, 2026, Paige Gibbons Backus, Historic Site Manager with the county’s Office of Historic Preservation (part of the Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism), presented an overview of the Prince William County VA 250 efforts to the Board of Supervisors. The local commission, established in 2023, coordinates with state and national America 250 initiatives while emphasizing hyperlocal stories of patriots, loyalists, free and enslaved residents, and everyday contributions from Prince William’s past.
“The entrance fees are free today at Prince William Forest Park and other national parks across the country,” the park announced on Flag Day. “Flag Day commemorates the day in 1777 when the Second Continental Congress officially adopted the design of the stars and stripes as the United States flag.”
Although the holiday itself wasn’t officially designated until 1949, visitors can enjoy the patriotic celebration with waived fees at the park today.
“Prince William County Parks & Recreation pools and waterparks are open THIS WEEKEND,” Prince William County Parks & Recreation reported. “Grab your sunglasses, swimsuit and sunscreen and head on down to your favorite pool or waterpark for a splish-splashing good time starting this weekend.”
“The Pool is OPEN! Summer fun starts now at the Doris E. Buffett Pool,” Fredericksburg parks officials announced. “Grab your sunscreen, bring your friends, and dive into a season full of splashes, sunshine, and poolside memories.”
Several local swimming pools remained closed this weekend as rain and cool temperatures washed out the start of the summer season. Prince William County announced Saturday evening that all outdoor pools and water parks would remain closed on Sunday, May 24, due to inclement weather.
In Manassas Park, officials canceled the Soft Opening for Signal Bay Waterpark on Friday night and kept the facility closed on Sunday because temperatures stayed below 70 degrees with ongoing rain. The city expressed disappointment after months of preparation and encouraged residents to sign up for text alerts for future updates.
Stafford County Parks and Recreation is highlighting stories rooted in the county’s history, with a focus this month on the Rowser Building and the Path to African American Mural.
The Rowser Building, built in 1939 as Stafford Training School, was the only facility in the county where Black students could pursue education beyond the seventh grade during segregation. Local African American families helped fund the land purchase, and the school served students. Over the decades, it evolved into H.H. Poole Junior High and later H.H. Poole High School. In 1976, it was renamed to honor Ella Rowser, an educator who served as a teacher, guidance counselor, and principal.
