Why Demolish the Pool?
- Because of its deteriorated condition, the existing pool would require extensive repairs to meet the community’s future aquatic needs. In September 2019, City consultants estimated that it would require $9.5 million to repair and restore the existing pool facility for 15-20 years of additional service - the cost estimate would be higher in today’s dollars.
- Regardless of the repair cost, the existing pool cannot meet the long-term aquatic needs of the community due to its configuration.
It doesn't make sense to invest millions into a pool that can't meet our long term needs.
As stated in the PETF report, “the existing natatorium and pool vessel [...] does not provide a separate recreation pool as desired by the PETF for more robust aquatics programming.” Seniors and families with children in the community prioritize a separate recreation pool because, as the report states, “the combination of shallow water and warm temperature in a recreation pool provides opportunities for a wide range of community programming including water fitness classes, swimming lessons, therapy, and interactive water play.” Such amenities could not be offered in the existing pool facility. This led the PETF to instead recommend construction of a new pool facility with separate recreation and competition pools that can appropriately serve the whole community.
- Proceeding with demolition now is the prudent thing to do. Because it's clear that the old pool facility cannot meet Sandy's aquatic needs anymore, proceeding with demolition now, rather than waiting any longer, is the most responsible use of taxpayer dollars. Demolition costs will only grow more expensive in the future.
