Budlong Pool reopens as Budlong Aquatic Center in Cranston

CRANSTON, R.I. — After six years, one of Cranston’s most beloved summer traditions officially returns today as the Budlong Pool, known now as the Budlong Aquatic Center, reopens to the public at noon.

Families lined up to be among the first through the gates, celebrating the return of a city landmark that had been closed since 2020. Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee, Cranston Mayor Ken Hopkins, city officials, and community members gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the occasion.

Originally opened in 1940, Budlong Pool was once one of the largest municipal swimming pools in the country. While the new aquatic center is about 64% smaller than the original, it features lap lanes, a splash pad, an ADA-accessible entrance, renovated locker rooms, shaded seating, picnic areas, and the restored historic WPA-era pool house.

We stopped by today’s grand opening to capture the excitement. Check out our photos from opening day!

What do you think of the new Budlong Aquatic Center? Do you miss the original Budlong Pool, or are you excited for this new chapter?