Associated Press Published

Four Pools, Golf Course to Close Due to Budget Shortfall

Swimming Pool

The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources says it will close four pools and a golf course to address an expected budget shortfall of nearly $1 million in the coming fiscal year.

The agency said in a statement that it also plans to consolidate some management positions and some seasonal maintenance employees will be eliminated.

The pools to be permanently closed include those at Kanawha and Cabwaylingo state forests and those at Babcock and Twin Falls Resort state parks.

Officials say those pools are among the most heavily subsidized and have seen a decrease in use and a loss in revenue.

The 9-hole golf course at Pipestem Resort State Park will close after Labor Day, though the park’s 18-hole golf course will remain open.