Rain delays the reopening of Cranston's Budlong Pool

Rain has delayed the reopening of Cranston’s Budlong Pool, pushing the original July 8 opening to July 15 at noon. The Cranston mayor’s office said heavy rain forecast throughout the week required the contractor to postpone the final concrete pours, since freshly placed concrete needs adequate time to cure and rainfall before proper set can compromise the finished surface. The schedule shift also affects the timeline for final licensing inspections before the pool can open. To extend the summer season for residents, the city will keep the Budlong Aquatic Center operating through Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026, according to the office of Mayor Ken Hopkins. Cranston residents will receive free admission to the new pool and splash pad from Wednesday, July 15 through Saturday, July 18, as a community appreciation period and soft opening. After that, visitors will buy day or season passes, with listed rates for residents and non-residents including children, adults, seniors aged 55+ and veterans.