Just in time for summer? After decade in disrepair, Merced public pool to see new life
With sunny skies shining and temperatures rising, Merced residents will soon be looking for ways to cool down.
City leaders say they’re hopeful that the reopening of the Ada Givens public pool this summer will do just that.
After being closed since 2011, the now-shabby pool was given new life by the Merced City Council Monday. Elected officials unanimously voted to allocate city dollars toward an extensive restoration project totaling $270,000 — a bit more than initially estimated.
City leaders first put aside $100,000 for the project during last year’s budget. But the extent of work necessary, price increases and supply chain issues over the past year caused the estimate to rise by $170,000 more, according to city staff.
A specific reopening date is still forthcoming. However, pending potential supply chain issues, city staff said they’re optimistic Ada Givens pool could reopen for swim lessons sometime this summer.
“This is obviously more than we wanted,” City Engineer Michael Beltran said while addressing the council Monday. “The equipment is old, it’s dated. I think the biggest thing is its been sitting for a little over 10 years without operating at all.”
The plan is to replace all pool equipment including pumps, filters and chemical injection, in addition to updating the plumbing, electrical system and bathroom. The facility must also be made ADA accessible.
The council on Monday approved a supplementary appropriation of $170,000 for the project from Measure Y funds, collected from a cannabis tax that goes toward police, fire and parks and recreation. The vote also approved a services agreement with Dale Butterworth Pools for the pool rehabilitation.
In addition to a $5,000 initial startup costs to replace safety equipment and supplies, an estimated annual maintenance cost of about $11,500 will also be tacked on. A $41,000 yearly price tag for lifeguards, material, and labor will be offset by $43,000 in revenue from swimming lessons and rentals, according to city staff.
“It’s a lot of money, but I think it’s worth it,” Councilmember Kevin Blake said before casting his vote in support of the project.
Before its closure more than 10 years ago, the facility was also rented out for birthday parties and end of school celebrations. City officials expressed hope that the pool will soon return to its former glory as a hub for community merriment.
Councilmember Fernando Echevarria voiced excitement at the prospect of the pool becoming an accessible place for residents to enjoy swimming and attending local events together. “I think its important that we focus on trying to bring the pool to our disadvantaged neighbors and youth,” he said.
Echevarria floated the notion of holding community block parties at the pool and offering free swim days. His fellow council members echoed their support for the ideas.
“It’s a public pool, and the point of a public pool is broad access, access for people who don’t have pools at home,” Merced Mayor Matt Serratto said. “Especially here – it’s important in the summer when it’s so hot. Families can come and cool off.”
