The Ocracoke Community Pool Association (OCPA) has purchased 1.4 acres of land off Cutting Sage Road for the island’s first-ever community swimming pool.
After years of planning and community support, the association on Sept. 19 closed on a parcel large enough to house a six-lane, 25-meter pool that will serve residents and visitors alike.
The new facility will include:
• A fenced pool with decking for recreation and gatherings
• A pool house with an apartment
• Full ADA compliance for accessibility
The pool will be located on Cutting Sage Road, on the left just before the first bridge to Oyster Creek, making it centrally positioned for the Ocracoke community.
“We are so excited to reach this milestone,” said Ruth Toth, president of the association. “The pool will provide a safe and welcoming space for exercise, swim lessons, and community connection — something our island has needed for a long time.”
The OCPA board would especially like to thank the Mallison family for offering to sell the property at a price that reflects their deep commitment to supporting the Ocracoke community. The board also extends heartfelt thanks to all of the investors in the pool project, as well as the many individuals who have donated funds to make this dream possible.
It truly takes a village!
The association is now turning its attention to the next phase of development and will continue fundraising efforts to bring the project to life.
Community members are encouraged to get involved, share ideas, and support this exciting initiative that will benefit generations to come.
It’s been over 10 years since swimming lessons were conducted by the Ocracoke Youth Center, Toth said. They were the last ones to offer it.
Island hotel pools have declined to allow swimming instruction saying insurance liability only covers their guests.
And the Pamlico Sound is not suitable for large-scale swimming instruction.
Toth said that water safety instruction for children from ages of one and four decrease their chances of drowning by 88%.
The Ocracoke Community Pool Association is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to building and maintaining a public swimming pool that promotes health, safety, and recreation for the island community.
To donate, send checks to OCPA, PO Box 1371, Ocracoke, NC 27960. For information, email ocpa23@yahoo.com.
