Upgrades to Palmerton Memorial Pool should be completed in time for opening day.

Larry Arner, pool manager, said eight trees have been planted to ensure more shade, the grass area around the inside of the pool will be enlarged, and a sand volleyball court will replace the macadam volleyball court.Arner said that while the original plan called for all the work to be finished by now, the weather has backed things up."We hope to have it ready for the start," he said. "The weather is starting to cooperate a little."The pool is scheduled to open at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 28.Arner - who said the project has been discussed for several years - noted that the pavilion is encompassed inside and will be rented out for children's and adults' birthday parties. The rental fee will include daily admission, a drink, and a slice of pizza, he said.The new trees may be sponsored, Arner said. Those who would like to sponsor a tree may contact Arner at (610) 826-5357, or Bernie Shea.Those who sponsor a tree will be recognized, he said.Jeff George Excavators of Palmerton is in charge of the grading, while Old Homestead Tree Farm of Lehighton planted the trees.Arner said the entire project is expected to cost about $50,000. The cost is being paid for from donations from the Horsehead Development Fund; funds received from the Howard Witham and Erma Wagner estate; a donation from the Lehighton Masonic Lodge #621 F&AM; and Palmerton Pool Pals.