NEW YORK (PIX11) — Looking for a way to cool down? You’re in luck! Outdoor city pools just opened for the season.

Officials celebrated at the reopening of Astoria pool, one of 50 pools that opened Thursday. 

The city’s largest outdoor pool just underwent an $18.9 million renovation, bringing the nearly 100 year-old facility up to date.

“This reconstruction is really going to provide an entire summer of activity. Lifetime of memories and friendship and bonding,” said Mayor Eric Adams.

Earlier this week, Mayor Adams also announced more than a billion dollars over 5 years in funding for city pools.

“This is our biggest investment in pools in more than 50 years. It’ll help us build more pools and protect and improve our existing pools in all five boroughs. Many of these pools have laid dormant or unoccupied and we wanted to make sure that we will open these pools.”

Commissioner Sue Donoghue of the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation was also on hand and addressed the ongoing lifeguard shortage. She said the city has 600 lifeguards so far and the number will continue to grow for the season.

“Back in February we increased pay to $22 an hour plus a thousand dollar retention bonus for our returning lifeguards.”

She added, “We’ve expanded our training, our opportunities and we renegotiated our lifeguard contract so first time in 40 years.”

8-year-old Jayden Shimabuku spent his first day of summer break at Astoria Pool, enjoying the day with his dad Omar. “I bring him out cause he loved the pool- he loves water. I’m just happy everyone is here having a good time: the kids having fun and I’m doing my part as a father,” said Omar Shimabuku.

Valentina Franco, a mom from Jackson Heights was there with her 3-year-old son Elias. “Family time- getting the children out- enjoy the water, hopefully catch a tan,” said Franco.

Mom and daughter Arelis Pimentel and Joanna Pimentel from Astoria spent the day poolside.  “They’re wonderful, lots of changes, I’ve been coming here since I was 12. It’s more than a pool. This is about family,” said Arelis.

A full list of city pools can be found online. The pools are open every day from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and will be until September 8.