With the hot summer sun upon us, spending a day at the pool is often top of mind for kids and adults alike. In the District of Hudson’s Hope, residents anxiously await opening day of the Outdoor Public Swimming Pool which offers aquafit, family and public swimming, and a chance to relax in the summer.
Built in 2002/2003, the pool is now 20 years old and feeling the wear and tear of many swimming seasons. Annual repairs are completed to allow the facility to remain open, however, permanent repairs are needed to avoid a failure that would result in an extended closure of the facility.
In October of 2022, the District of Hudson’s Hope successfully applied for a $187,500 Recreation Infrastructure grant which will go towards replacing the pool liner, floor inlets and gutters to restore the outdoor pool to a watertight facility. Currently, 1,200 to 1,500 gallons of potable water a day are being lost through the failing pool liner.
“These essential renovations to the facility will ensure its continued economic viability,” said Tashana Winnicky, acting mayor of Hudson’s Hope. “Without these improvements, safety hazards as well as aesthetic deterioration will reduce future opportunities to host events and to maintain current programming.
“The local economy is largely dependent on a sustainable and growing population, for whom the municipality must maintain existing recreation infrastructure and services.”
The pool sees approximately 4,000 swimmers per season and employees several local students as lifeguards and other staff.
In 2010, Northern Development provided a $27,591 Community Halls and Recreation Facilities grant to support the installation of solar heating for the community pool.
