Little Rock, Arkansas – The John Cain Aquatic Center is preparing to reopen next week after a violent incident earlier this month left three people injured in a shooting at the park. The reopening comes with a significant shift in safety policies, as officials move to tighten rules and reduce risks for visitors.
According to a post on the facility’s Facebook page, the aquatic center will resume operations on Tuesday, June 23. While the reopening marks a return to normal summer activity, staff say the environment will now look and feel different, with stricter enforcement of behavior and access rules.
One of the most notable changes involves entry requirements and on-site conduct. The center stated, “Please note that everyone will pay admission and everyone will have to be in swim attire, there will be no hanging around,” the post said.
The updated policies are designed to create a more controlled and family-focused environment, especially in the wake of the recent shooting. Officials emphasized that all guests must follow lifeguard instructions at all times, and children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
A full list of new rules has also been released, covering safety, behavior, and facility use. Life vests will still be permitted, but inflatables are now banned. Activities such as running, diving, horseplay, or rough play are also prohibited to reduce the risk of accidents and conflict inside the pool area.
Dress code enforcement is also being strengthened. Proper swimwear is now required, and cutoffs or street clothes will not be allowed inside the facility. Officials say this rule is intended to maintain hygiene and safety standards throughout the water park.
Food and drink policies are also being tightened. Outside food and beverages are no longer permitted inside the facility, and visitors are expected to properly dispose of trash to help keep the park clean. Staff are also encouraging guests to respect both other visitors and employees while using the facility.
Behavioral restrictions extend beyond general conduct. The updated rules ban drugs, alcohol, and tobacco products entirely, along with smoking or vaping anywhere on the property. Loud music, profanity, abusive language, or any disruptive behavior will also not be tolerated.
Perhaps most importantly in light of the recent incident, weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited within the aquatic center.
Officials have made clear that enforcement will be strict. Failure to follow the rules may result in suspension or removal from the facility, depending on the severity of the violation. Staff will be responsible for monitoring compliance and addressing issues as they arise.
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The reopening comes as a cautious step forward for the community, which is still processing the aftermath of the shooting that injured three people. While the facility aims to provide a safe space for families during the summer season, the new rules reflect a stronger emphasis on control, supervision, and prevention.
As opening day approaches, visitors are being encouraged to review all updated policies before arriving. The aquatic center hopes that with tighter guidelines in place, it can restore public confidence and continue serving as a recreational space while prioritizing safety above all else.
