by Nicole Bradford
Major upgrades and repairs at the city’s natatorium will require the facility to be closed for several months beginning July 1.
The city on May 20 approved a $1.9 million contract for work that includes replastering the natatorium’s competition pool and replacing chemical treatment and filtration systems.
Another $2.17 million has been contracted to replace failing air conditioning and dehumidifying systems in the facility, which hosts the school district’s swim practices and competitions.
Unfortunately, city officials said, the work needed to reopen the natatorium isn’t expected to be completed until late September or early October, after the water polo season begins.
“That’s a conservative estimate; there’s a potential we could reopen sooner than that,” Parks and Recreation Director Carry Capers said.
For those with memberships to the facility, 4141 Bailey Road, the city is adjusting fees, including a three-month free extension of memberships. Seasonal, or three-month, memberships purchased in May will receive a one-month extension.
In addition, the city said in a May announcement, “natatorium-only members will have extended access to the recreation center while the natatorium is closed.”
