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Work progressing in pool replacement at Alder Recreation Centre

August 10, 2023   ·   0 Comments

Another step in the Alder pool reconstruction has been completed as the project continues to progress.

Welding is complete on the sides of both the lap and leisure pool. Remediation work continues along the southeast wall, and once done, concrete will be poured along the steps and ramp in the leisure pool and along the access ramp in the lap pool. 

“Once the deck is poured, we can move forward with next steps, such as completing the welding of the lap pool floor and installing the leisure pool liner at the base,” said Heather Savage, general manager of community services for the Town of Orangeville. “This has been a long process and we have encountered numerous challenges, but when complete, Orangeville will have an exciting, safe, state-of-the-art pool to enjoy.”

The project started in 2021 when the Town attempted to replace the pool liner, which had reached its lifespan. The Town also tried to adjust the lap pool size from six lanes to eight to accommodate swim competitions and provide more space. 

However, when the project began, numerous unanticipated issues arose, including the discovery of no structural steel rebars or mesh under the pool deck, a significant collapse of the base soils, and delamination.

These deficiencies presented severe safety concerns. To remediate and bring the pool up to the Building Code, the entire area needed to be gutted and rebuilt.

This has led to significant cost increases for a project that was originally budgeted for $4.33 million. The current cost is up to $9.28 million.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also created a number of supply chain issues, slowing construction. Recently, further deficiencies were discovered, delaying progress further. 

A progress update from Town of Orangeville staff to council in December of last year indicated the pool would be ready for spring, but in April, a new update shared they were looking at a mid-September opening. 

“These discoveries have been disappointing and the Town shares in the frustration of its residents over the additional costs and delays these have caused,” added Savage. “Although this situation has not been ideal, we are glad we’ve had the opportunity to correct these significant issues and build a safe space for the community to enjoy. We look forward to continuing to provide updates as this project moves towards completion.”

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