Wake Forest, N.C. — The decision by Raleigh officials to relax water restrictions will allow Wake Forest to open the town's only public pool this summer.

Town officials had been concerned that they might have to keep Holding Park Pool empty and closed during the summer season because of water rules that prevented the use of municipal drinking water to fill pools and fountains.

Built in the 1940s, the 50-meter pool holds 245,000 gallons, and Wake Forest commissioners said they couldn't see filling it – and adding about 6,000 gallons a day to it to keep it full – when the region continues to see extreme drought conditions.

Recent rains have replenished Falls Lake, and Raleigh officials on Monday lifted tight water restrictions on residents and businesses in Raleigh and six area towns on the municipal water system, including Wake Forest.

Holding Park Pool will open for weekends on May 24 and weekdays on June 11, officials said. The pool will remain open until Aug. 24, they said. For information about programs offered at the pool, call the Wake Forest Parks & Recreation Department at 919-554-6180.