Local residents will have one last formal chance to bid “farewell” to the city’s 52-year-old swimming pool on Sunday night. The Belle Plaine Parks and Recreation Department is sponsoring a Last Big Splash pool party and cookout on Sunday, from 7-9 p.m.

Free swimming, free hot dogs, hamburgers, chips and drinks will be provided.

The pool officially closes for the last time for human use on Saturday, Aug. 8 at 7 p.m. On Sunday, Aug. 9, the traditional Doggie Dip, sponsored by Oak Knob Kennels, will be held from 1-3 p.m.

Dogs, accompanied by their owners, will be allowed to swim in the wading pool or the main pool that afternoon. The owners must sign a liability waiver, show proof of their pet’s vaccination and Belle Plaine dogs must be licensed.

To register for the Doggie Dip or for more information, contact the pool at 444-3955 or City Hall, 444-2200.

Bids have been awarded and construction of the city’s new aquatics center, slated to be placed on the site of the current pool, could begin as early as Aug. 10, city officials said.